CAN you add a sprinkling of seasonal sparkle and festive fun for poorly youngsters?

The Play Team from The Royal Oldham Hospital's Children's Unit are hoping to make this Christmas extra special but they need your help.

They are appealing for funds towards helping to decorate the ward and treats to hand out to the children who are too ill to return home for Christmas.

The Play Team's Amanda Roberts says the staff do as much as they can to make the festive season full of fun for the youngsters and have lined up some entertainers who have agreed to perform free of charge.

Grand Dame Theatre Company, from Manchester, will be staging Oliver on December 22, Talespin Theatre, from Bolton, will be performing Jack and the Beanstalk on December 20 and Mother Christmas will be getting the festive season underway on November 29.

"We're trying to raise funds to make it as special as we can for the children who have to be in hospital over Christmas," said Amanda.

"Last year we had 28 children on the ward over Christmas and we also have an observation and assessment ward as well as youngsters with very complex needs. We can be very busy. Want want to do as much as possible to give them a lovely Christmas."

A crowd-funding page to raise £300 has been set up for cash donations at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/charlotte-auton?utm_term=gmv3Yej55.

For donations of treats or decorations call Amanda on 07922 155065 or a member of the Play Team on 0161 627 8866.