Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson announced he is to become a patron of LOROS as he took the squad on a tour of the hospice.
Last year, the Foxes chose the hospice as their supported charity and the LOROS logo is now emblazoned on the team's away kit. Pearson also completed a fund-raising bike ride for the charity, in November, collecting more than £3,000.
On a tour of the hospice with the entire City squad yesterday, he said it was important for the players to know about the charity they were supporting. "We wear the name on the away shirt and staff were involved in the bike ride so we felt it was important for players to come up and see what a fabulous service it provides," said Pearson.
Asked to become a patron before the visit, he said he did not think twice about accepting. "I'm delighted and feel very privileged to have been asked," he said.
City players spent the afternoon meeting staff, volunteers and patients, as well as signing dozens of photos and shirts. Striker Paul Gallagher said: "It's nice to be involved with the charity and to help spread the word. I only came to Leicester in the summer so didn't really know much about LOROS. It's a great place and the staff are all really kind and helpful."
Fellow striker Martyn Waghorn said: "It's nice to be involved and to meet people and hopefully put a smile on their faces." Goalkeeper Chris Weale said: "I moved to Leicester this season so only really knew about LOROS from our away shirt. Seeing it really opens your eyes to what they do. It's fantastic. The more we can do to help the better."
Patient Juan Reveron, 60, of Wigston, said he was excited about meeting the team. "I live in Leicester so I support City and Tigers," he said. "It was nice to meet the players."
The players were shown around the hospice, including the new Willow Wing, officially opened by the Duchess of Gloucester earlier in the week . LOROS fund-raising manager Diane Morris said all the staff were excited about the visit.
The Leicester Mercury wants to raise £450,000 towards Willow Wing. Readers have helped to collect just over £200,000 since November.
To donate, visit our website: http://www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk