FOOTBALLING superstars brought smiles to the faces of poorly children by delivering presents at their hospital bedsides.

Blackburn Rovers players visited the children's wards at Queen's Park Hospital and Blackburn Infirmary and their generosity impressed staff and parents as they took time to cheer up youngsters.

And manager Graeme Souness praised his players for being committed in carrying out community visits

Striker Dwight Yorke showed his caring nature by delivering a Tweenies book and Tom and Jerry video to three-year-old pneumonia-sufferer Lewis Taylor.

Dwight, 32, said: "I think it's very important for us to come to the hospital. We play football and people don't see the other side of things that we do as professional players.

"This is a special time of the year and there is a lot of receiving and giving. So after training we take time out and give away things to children who are unfortunately in hospital.

"It's difficult for them. Some of them are too young to know who we are, but nevertheless it's very worthwhile."

Dwight was joined at Queen's Park by Craig Short, Lucas Neill, Andy Todd, Alan Kelly, Brett Emerton, David Yelldell, Peter Enckelman and Martin Taylor.

Craig, 35, a father-of-two, said that when he became a dad the annual trips to deliver presents in hospital became even more meaningful.

He said: "At times I think I take it for granted that my children are all right and healthy. Some people have a lot more problems and troubles.

"All year round we do things in the community, but I think this is the most important."

Parent Siobhan Neild, from Revidge Road, Blackburn, whose son Tom, two, was in the ward after experiencing breathing difficulties, said the players were polite and friendly.

Staff were impressed too. Elizabeth Halsall, a hospital play specialist, said the players donated toys for all the children, a new Gameboy Advance for the ward and the money for a PlayStation 2.

Elizabeth said: "I have fallen in love with Blackburn Rovers players!"

Rovers manager Graeme Souness said: "Players are much maligned at times. In saying that, some do encourage criticism but I think players are, and always have been, willing to do their bit for the community.

"It's a small act on their behalf to go visiting kids in hospital. Lots of the players today have children themselves and they are all precious to us.

"The last thing you would want to see is any of your children in hospital so they did the visit with pleasure.

"I think our players are committed to taking part in things which involve the community.

"As far as going to see children in hospital, whether it's Christmas or any time, I don't think we are behind in that compared to other clubs."