Jake left stunned by Tigers players who came to tea

FORWARDS from Leicester Tigers proved to be real gentle giants when they visited a Burbage youngster at Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

Lifelong Tigers fan Jake Pearson, aged 24, has been supported by the hospice since he was a young boy.

And he was given a stunning surprise when Tigers stars Sione Kalamafoni, George McGuigan, Valentino Mapapalangi and Michele Rizzo popped in for tea.

The players took a tour of the centre’s specialist facilities and met other families and staff members and signed autographs.

For Jake the afternoon was one to remember.

Seeing the players for the first time he broke out in a massive smile.

Jake’s mum, Sue, said: “To see Jake smiling was absolutely wonderful.

“He was so happy to meet his heroes. And they were lovely; real gentle giants. I am so grateful to them.”

The players were taking a break from their training schedule and following a series of wins against Worcester, Saracens and Harlequins.

Tigers prop and Italian international, Michele Rizzo, said: “I think it is very important to stay close to people and especially those less lucky than us – and those who are Tigers fans who can’t come to see us.

“We want to bring them as close to the club as we can.

“We felt very honoured to share part of our lives with their lives.

“I have two young boys myself and I am glad to see the wonderful work here supporting children, young people and their families.

“It is therefore a privi- lege to be here.”

The players’ visit was supported by Holland & Barrett, the national health and wellbeing retailer and main partner of Leicester Tigers.

Julie Macauley, Rainbows family liaison, said: “For many of our youngsters and their families meeting four Tigers was a dream come true.

“But to actually see how engaged and caring the players were was absolutely magical – and we can’t thank them enough. It was a magical afternoon.”

She said hearts were further melted when Sione Kalamafoni met a young lady in the Rainbows multi-sensory room not able to communicate with him - and he spontaneously took off his sweatshirt and presented it to her to keep as a momento.

“Communication took place beautifully. The gesture was truly moving,” Julie added.

Leicester Tigers stars delighted families and staff at Rainbows Hospice when they popped in for a tour, tea and to sign autographs. Pictures: Jake Pearson, from Burbage (centre) with mum, Sue, and Tigers Sione, Valentino, George and Michele.