Foxes skipper Morgan ‘moved’ to meet cub supporters at Rainbows

Leicester City Football Club skipper Wes Morgan met two of the youngest Foxes supporters when he capped his Premier League season with a visit to Rainbows Hospice.

Wes kicked off his end-of season break to wow youngsters with life-limiting conditions during his visit to support the Loughborough-based charity – the only specialist care centre of its kind across the region.

The City favourite said he heard about Rainbows at the recent Testimonial Ball for his friend and former teammate, Nottingham Forest captain Chris Cohen, which supported the hospice, raising almost £55,000.

“I was incredibly moved to hear about Rainbows and the fantastic work it does to support youngsters and their families across the East Midlands when they need it most. And I wanted to find out more and lend my support. And if that brightens the lives of the youngsters, that means a lot to me,” he added.

The Leicester player – who led City to Premier League glory in May 2016 – spent several hours meeting youngsters, family and staff at Rainbows.

They included a small ‘Blue Army’ of children and young people and their families, which featured nine-month-old Kaleb Crook, in full kit and Isla-Grace Clarke (seven months), sporting a City bib.

Wes said: “I have children myself… and it makes you realise how fortunate you are and what some parents and youngsters have to go through. But Rainbows is amazing. I had an idea it was like a hospital, but it is not like that at all. It is a joyous place full of love and colour and making memories for children with short lives. It’s amazing.” 

He said he intended to spread the word among Foxes players and plans to visit again soon. “I’ve had a great time,” Wes added. “Sometimes you get side-tracked by football, but today has been a reminder of the really important things in life.”

Julie Macauley, Rainbows Family Liaison, commented: “Wes created huge excitement for the youngsters here, their families and staff. He was a true gentleman and took time to meet and talk to everyone. We are so grateful to him for his generosity – and in making a day our families will always remember.”

Before leaving Wes even found time to head out into the Rainbows garden for some football practice with youngsters. “It might be the end of the season, but I need to keep up my training,” he joked. “And these kids are good!”

Our picture shows cub supporter Kaleb and his parents with Wes.