ROCHDALE District Freemasons took on the role of Father Christmas during a visit to Springhill Hospice.

They ensured the hospice wasn’t left off their Christmas list by hand-delivering M&S hampers to day care patients, who will be home alone over the festive holiday.

The hospice also received a cheque for £3,500 from the Freemasons’ grand charity fund.

Over the past 24 years the fund has given over £7.5M to hospices throughout the country.

Springhill Hospice chief executive Christine Webb said: "Once again this year, we are delighted to accept on behalf of our day patients, Christmas hampers from Rochdale District Freemasons.

"I can’t stress enough how much of a difference these lovely food parcels make to the patients in our care. The Rochdale District is such a supporter of this hospice and help us in so many ways in our work."

David Greenhalgh, the Rochdale District charity steward, said: "Hospices play a vital role in helping individuals and their families affected by life-limiting illnesses.

"This grant will, in addition to funds raised by local masons, help to run Springhill’s excellent services, which rely on voluntary and charitable donations to support its work."