Christmas Comes a little early for Kerry Regional Hospital’s Children’s Ward

16 December 2013

Kids of all ages attending the Children’s Ward at Kerry Regional Hospital were some of the first children to welcome Santa Claus to the Kingdom this week, when the great man made a surprise visit to meet the children who are in hospital during the festive season.  Santa was taking a break from his busy schedule and came with presents for all the children and to listen first hand to all their Christmas wish lists.

Santa was taking a break from his meet and greet duties at Manor West Retail Park and before he left his throne at the centre he filled up his sack with special gifts for the 35 children who are in hospital at the moment.

Derek Rusk, Centre Manager at Manor West Retail Park who personally escorted Santa to the hospital said “Christmas is a very special time for kids of all ages – but it’s important that kids who have to spend part of Christmas in hospital should get some extra treats.  We were all delighted to bring a little extra excitement to the Children’s Ward today and I’d especially like to thank the teams at Smyths and Mothercare who kindly came on board and gave us some fabulous gifts for all the children.  When we asked our Manor West Santa to come along and meet the children, he was only to too happy to oblige.  While many children come and visit Santa at the centre we felt it was time for him to get some exercise and visit those who weren’t able to make the journey! It was so very special to see the delight and surprise on the children’s faces.”

After chatting to the children, whose ages ranged from just 5 weeks to 16 years of age Santa returned to his throne at Manor West, where he will continue to be on duty, meeting as many kids as possible in the run up to Christmas.

For Christmas opening hours and times when Santa will be in store at Manor West, visit www.manorwest.ie or follow Manor West Retail Park on facebook.