Clatterbridge Hospital wards has a surprise visit recently, arranged by the hospital’s Chaplain, Reverend Jackie Parry. Our presenter, Steve Evans went along to catch a few interviews and listen to the singing and watch the dancing on the wards.

Liverpool FC’s chaplain, Bill Bygroves, who brought the European Cup, now called the Champions League trophy of course, came along with Margaret Aspinall, who was the Chair of the Hillsborough Family Support Group (HFSG), before its closure a few years ago after Margaret deemed it’s work was now done. Margaret lost her son James in the Hillsborough disaster and has worked tirelessly for over 35 years fighting for justice.

Also joining Bill and Margaret were four LFC staff members who volunteered their time to visit staff, patients and families in Clatterbridge. Alan Kennedy the legend who scored the winning goals in two European cup finals for Liverpool was supposed to join them, but was unavoidably detained in traffic on the M6 in Birmingham, so unfortunately never made it.

Firstly, Rev Jackie met the LFC staff in the lovely chapel at Clatterbridge, then went into the main corridor with the Champions League Trophy and plenty of signed photos. They spoke with staff and visitors and happily posed for photos and handed out signed player and squad photos to everyone. Plenty took the opportunity to have their photo taken with the cup with colleagues or alone.

The LFC staff then visited wards, Clatterbridge Rehabilitation Centre (CRC) and M1 were they were well received by patients, doctors and staff.

Everyone joined in singing and dancing as Bill Bygroves with his guitar led the singing along with the LFC staff and Margaret. Very quickly many patients and staff joined in singing Sweet Caroline, Hey Jude and many more.

Finally, after two hours of great fun, Bill, Margaret and the staff bid us all a fond farewell.

You can listen to the interview with Rev. Jackie, Margaret and Rev. Bill and part of the afternoon’s celebrations and singing in the below link.