Garden centre donates 'hundreds of toys' to children's ward

A garden centre has donated hundreds of toys to a children’s ward in a gesture of festive goodwill.

Hereford Garden Centre delivered the gifts to Hereford County Hospital’s children’s ward, to be given to young patients spending Christmas in hospital.

The ward holds a special place in the hearts of staff Martin and Verity Gontier, whose 13-year-old son Reilly is a regular patient.

Mr Gontier said: “The children’s ward at Hereford County Hospital is a unique blend of exemplary medical care, passionate hard-working staff and a magical atmosphere that cares for the whole family’s holistic needs.

“They take the fear out of what can be the most terrifying time in a child and their family’s life.”

He said the ward has “undoubtedly saved our son’s life on multiple occasions” and described the staff as “like a second family.”

Mr Gontier said he was grateful for the donation from Hereford Garden Centre and proud to be part of the Blue Diamond Group.