AIREDALE Hospital and Community Charity has paid tribute to the public and businesses for rallying round in support this festive season.

The organisation – the official charity of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust – says fundraising activities have been held and a range of goods donated including selection boxes, gifts for elderly patients and toys for youngsters on the children's ward.

A charity spokesperson said: "We’re extremely grateful for all the support we have received.

"Despite the tough times everyone’s facing, our community has come together once again."

Children from Cononley Primary School donated gifts for older patients. Six pupils visited the hospital to deliver the presents.

Keighley Cougars players Dane Chisholm and Jake Webster, together with colleagues from the Cougars Foundation, distributed gifts – including some of the rugby league club's official merchandise – to children and adults.

Lisa McCann, foundation manager, said: "We were delighted to be able to support the work of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust – and our Christmas visit was just a small way of supporting the community at this special time.

"We know it is a very tough period to be in hospital, so hopefully the visit brought a little joy.

"We’re very excited to be working with Airedale Hospital and Community Charity, and look forward to many joint projects in 2023."

Robertson Construction donated items including toys, selection boxes and gift bags.

Jonathan Sizer, managing director for Yorkshire and the East Midlands, said: "It was our privilege to support the Airedale Hospital and Community Charity at Christmas."

Sovereign Health Care bought gifts, worth over £900, for the children’s ward – including books, 'slime kits' and colouring pens.

Steeton-based Acorn Stairlifts filled handmade reindeer gift bags with chocolates, notebooks and pens, toiletries, toys and playing cards. Emily Shepherd, for the company, said: "Having a stay in hospital is never easy, but it must feel even harder to be apart from your loved ones at this time of year. As a close neighbour of Airedale Hospital, we’re delighted to support it."

Goods were also donated by National Citizen Service participants.

Fundraising events have included the second Rudolph’s Run, organised by Lothersdale Agricultural Group.

More than 100 decorated tractors followed a route from Keighley to Skipton, taking in locations including Silsden and the hospital.

It has so far raised over £5,500 for Airedale Hospital and Community Charity and Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands, with donations still coming in.