Players and coaches from MK Lightning visited Milton Keynes University Hospital to distribute cuddly toys in the children’s A&E department.

The EPL club organised an ‘Air the Bear’ event at last Saturday’s home fixture against Hull Pirates.

Supporters were invited to bring new teddy bears and soft toys in sealed bags, to throw onto the ice whenever the first goal was scored – referencing the ‘Teddy Bear Toss’ custom prevalent in the North American game at Christmas.

It didn’t take long for the first goal to come, with soft toys raining down onto the ice pad at the five-minute mark – players from both teams helping gather donations alongside Lightning’s General Manager, Nick Poole.

Less than 48 hours later the players travelled to the paediatric unit in the town’s hospital to cheer up local children there.

Ross Green, Luc Johnson, Jack Watkins, Jordan Marr, Grant McPherson and Jordan Cownie were joined by Video Coach Lewis Clifford and Head Coach Pete Russell for the visit.

“Lightning’s roots have always been very much in the local community and I’ve always been very aware of that,” said Russell.

“Hospital can be a scary place for adults and even more so for kids, so it’s been fantastic for us and our fans to do something to help make it a bit less of an ordeal.

“But without our supporters this visit wouldn’t have been possible at all, so thanks to them for putting the smiles back on the faces of a lot of children and their families today.”