Stars of sport and entertainment, including players from Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion, feature in a special Christmas film launched today by Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The film, narrated by Acorns Patron Adil Ray OBE, focuses on some of the magical festive moments which took place at Acorns last Christmas and includes memorable clips of the region’s biggest sports teams visiting children and families at the charity’s hospices.

Also making an appearance in the film are player visits from Walsall FC, Worcester Warriors and Worcestershire County Cricket Club, a Christmas visit from Benjamin Zephaniah and an extraordinary festive flight for Acorns families from Birmingham Airport to meet Father Christmas at 30,000 feet. 

With all three Acorns hospices closed to non-essential visitors due to the current restrictions, the film looks ahead to next year when the special visits, Christmas parties, pantomimes and grottos should be able to take place safely once again. Adil Ray, who has visited Acorns at Christmas a number of times, including as well-known TV character Mr Khan, said:

“I’m delighted to be able to present this very special video which highlights how important the magic of Christmas is to the children and families cared for by Acorns.

“I found it very moving seeing all this lovely footage from last Christmas. Acorns holds a special place in the affection of the local community, and these Christmas visits are so important for the children and families who need our support.

“These visits obviously can’t take place this year, so we thought the next best thing would be to gather some of the most special memories in this film.”

Acorns, which in the past year has cared for over 800 children and supported more than 1,000 families, delivers its vital care 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, including Christmas. Adil added:

“The real stars of the film, though, are the very special children and families and the Acorns nurses, volunteers and hospice teams that support them.

“This year Acorns staff will be going above and beyond to make every day of the Christmas period a magical one for the children and families needing their care. Just like they always do.

"We wish everyone - all the wonderful staff, children and volunteers, a safe and a very Happy Christmas. We miss you and when it safe to do so, we can’t wait to see you at the hospices once again.”

To watch the film, you can visit acorns.org.uk.