By Tim Saunders on
You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why – Santa Claus is coming to town… but he might not be alone.
The big man in red was joined by his good friend Sir Paul McCartney during a visit to the Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) on December 17, as part of the facility’s 2nd annual Christmas party.
The singer spread some festive spirit around the 1,500 young patients of the children’s hospital, and also took part in a special karaoke session, belting out an impromptu version of S Club 7’s “Don’t Stop Movin’”.
“Sir Paul had everyone singing along,” said one of the partygoers. “The children were thrilled, but it was even more of a treat for the parents.”
The Great Ormond Street Hospital in London is a major children’s hospital that specializes in the most complex, life-threatening and life-limiting conditions. It regularly treats 150,000 patients a year. However, the government funding for the facility often falls short of the hospital’s needs, and the children rely on public donations for their on-going treatment.
“We’re delighted to be able to share this exciting day with the children, as they deserve a wonderful Christmas treat after coping so bravely with the tough year that many of them have had,” said TV presenter Tess Daly who, along with her husband Vernon Kay, also attended the event. “The Great Ormond Street Hospital does such fantastic work in helping the children get better.”
One of the children that Sir Paul met during his visit was 9-year-old Milly Pyne, who was born with a rare genetic disorder where the bones of her face and skull were fused together at birth. This brave young girl from Cumbria underwent surgery earlier this year, and earlier in December was honored at the Woman’s Own Children of Courage awards.
Sir Paul greeted Milly with a big hug, and then pretended to take a bite out of her medal.
The party also featured Santa’s Magical Workshop, where children could meet the big man, along with his elves and reindeer. They were also treated to festive food, and took part in games and toy making.
Copyright © 2007 Look to the Stars
