HOSPITAL patients in Hackney were paid a visit on by a special guest on Christmas Day this year.

Cllr Ian Rathbone, the Speaker of Hackney, accompanied the hospital’s chief executive, Nancy Hallett, on her annual seasonal tour of the wards.

Though many patients return home for the Christmas break, the Speaker met and chatted with those who were remaining in hospital.

He said: “I would like to thank Homerton Hospital for allowing me to visit the hospital on Christmas Day. It s a time when people can feel lonely in hospital and appreciate a visit, and I know relatives visit the sick on Christmas Day.

“I felt it was important to visit the hospital and also say thanks to the staff working on the one day of the year when everyone else is at home with their families.”

Following the visit, the Speaker attended a dinner for homeless people and older residents, held at the Salvation Army Citadel, in Mare Street.