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The Pilgrims are visiting Derriford Hospital on Wednesday, December 17, to spread a little festive cheer to the children’s wards and theatre suite.

Later the same day, they will attend the popular annual Carol Concert at Home Park, which this year commemorates the centenary of the Christmas Day Truce.

Every year, the players and management staff visit the Derriford Hospital in the run-up to Christmas, where they spend time and chat to children and their families and hand out Christmas gifts.

Whilst it may not earn Argyle any league points, it does lift the spirits of the children and their families being cared for at Derriford Hospital over the festive period.

Ann James, Chief Executive of Plymouth Hospitals, said: “The Plymouth Argyle Christmas visit is always incredibly popular with our patients, their families and our staff. Christmas can be a difficult for children to be in hospital and a visit from the Argyle players and staff can really help to brighten up their day.”

Argyle manager John Sheridan said: “It is a delight and a privilege for us to meet the children and their families at this special time of year. The players really look forward to it.

“It also gives us a chance to say ‘thank you’ to Derriford Hospital’s staff for all their care in their vital community role.”

At the heart of what promises to be a memorable Carol Concert will be the singing of a specially adapted version of Silent Night to mark the unofficial ceasefires that took place along the Western Front around Christmas 1914 during the first world war.

Hyde Park Junior School Choir will be singing some songs and helping lead the carol singing; Argyle players and coaching staff will perform the readings; and Mutley Baptist Church Band are leading the music.

Argyle owner James Brent will be there, too, along with – of course – Father Christmas, and there will be a special message from Argyle chaplain Arthur Goode.

The service will be held at the Devonport end of Home Park, beginning at 7pm. Gate opens at 6pm and admission is, as always, free.