Santa visited hospitals in Cork today, to meet boys and girls who will spend Christmas in hospital.
The visit was part of an annual toy drop, organised by Kinsale and District Lions Club.
Santa visited Cork University Hospital, Mercy University Hospital, South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital and several local charities and delivered gifts donated by the public of soft toys, board games, clothes, books, cosmetics and toiletries.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin was in attendance. He described the event as "truly heartwarming".
"Bringing joy to young patients at Christmas is a wonderful reminder of the kindness and solidarity that define our community," he said.
The event was also attended by Cork GAA personalities Micheál Aodh Martin, who is the son of the Taoiseach, as well as Rob Downey, Saoirse McCarthy and Laura O'Mahony.
The event was also supported by the Defence Forces and emergency services and by the Army Band.
President of Kinsale and District Lions Club Cormac Fitzgerald said the toy drop, backed by MMD Construction, ensured that every child in hospital at this time of year felt the warmth and magic of Christmas.
"The response has been nothing short of phenomenal. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of the public and our corporate supporters.
"A warm thanks must go to the Defence Forces and the Army Band, whose enthusiasm and support helped make the day truly unforgettable," he said.
Claire Concannon of CUH Charity said the annual toy drop is one of the best-loved charity appeals in Cork.
"The support that this initiative receives is immense and this year was no different. We were thrilled to be part of it once again," she said.
"The backing of the entire community makes it such a success, with the core aim of lifting the spirits of those children who will spend time in hospital over Christmas."
