A NEW charitable foundation has been bringing smiles to poorly children at Royal Bolton Hospital.

Asons Foundation, the charity arm of Bolton-based solicitors Asons, ensured Christmas came in August for the young patients — by delivering gifts to their bedsides.

Handing out the goodies were Asons chief executive Imran Akram and rising boxing star Osman Aslam.

Laura Gasson, play specialist nurse at the E5 children’s unit, said the 10 children appreciated the presents, which included a children’s laptop, learning and drawing boards and a remote controlled Lamborghini.

“Being in hospital and having treatment can be a difficult time for all involved, so play and fun become even more important for our patients to aid their recovery,” said Ms Gasson.

Asons Foundation head Bilal Akram said: “It was amazing to see the strength that the children and families had, and the kind reception they gave to us during our visit.

“I feel grateful we were able to bring a smile to their face.”

The Asons Foundation was set up by the law firm to help Bolton charities as well as homeless people and refugees. In addition it makes regular trips to Manchester city centre to deliver food to people living on the streets.

Osman, who trains at the Elite Gym in Halliwell, is sponsored by Asons and is undefeated in five professional fights at super bantamweight.

He was accompanied on the trip to the children’s ward by his manager Asif Vali, who also manages heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury.

Osman’s next fight will be on September 2 at Bowlers exhibition centre, Trafford Park.