Video: Christmas treat for young Leeds Rhinos fans

The whole team brought along t-shirts, teddy bears and playing cards for the children – as well as the three major trophies they won this year.

Players cuddled babies on the wards, and posed for photographs with many eager fans – both children and parents.

Second-row Josh Walters said: “Seeing the kids today makes you realise you need to stop whinging.

“It’s nice to spread some Christmas cheer, and put smiles on their faces - even if some of them are Castleford Tigers fans.”

And front-rower Keith Galloway said: “It puts a lot in perspective.

“It’s the first time I’ve visited the wards at LGI since moving to the UK, and it does make you realise how lucky you have it.”

Among the presents given out yesterday were Leeds Rhinos’ very own Top Trumps cards.

They are the first rugby team to get their own deck, created in conjunction with Heart Research UK.

Each card combines facts about legendary players with a healthy heart message.