
We are saying an extra thank you to Bloodrun Emergency Voluntary Service for its kind donation of toys to children in hospital over Christmas.
The volunteer bikers are a firm part of the Trust family, providing a much-appreciated free blood courier service. They use ‘blood bikes’ and ‘blood cars’ to deliver and collect everything from blood transfusions to urgent test samples.
This week, the kind-hearted team were joined by Santa himself as they delivered Christmas presents to the children on our wards at the University Hospital of North Tees.
Due to infection prevention control and social distancing requirements, the gift giving took place outside. However, some children were able to meet Santa and receive a gift in person.
Bloodrun’s Ken Bayne said: “It was fantastic to see the smiles on faces the children who came outside to meet Santa, as our other volunteer riders.
“We never normally get to see the people we deliver blood for so it was a real treat to see these kids. It was a really special day for us all.”

Children’s ward manager Heather Walker said: “This is so generous of Blood Run!
“We’re really grateful for Blood Run EVS for all they do for us throughout the year but this is lovely.
“The children on the ward will love the toys and it’ll brighten up their time in hospital.
“The whole ward would like to say thank you the volunteers for these special Christmas gifts.”
Find out more about Bloodrun EVS.