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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Kris Gourlay

Hibs striker surprises young Edinburgh fan at Sick Kids with match ball and signed shirt

A Hibernian striker paid a special visit to the Edinburgh Sick Kids hospital and left one fan with a smile on her face after gifting her his recently acquired hat-trick match ball and a signed shirt.

Kevin Nisbet went to visit Ava, a young Hibees supporter, at the Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Children and Young People. As if meeting one of her favourite players face-to-face wasn't enough, Kevin kindly handed over his match ball following three goals scored against Motherwell.

As well as the ball, Ava was also surprised when Kevin handed over a signed home shirt, with the club posting several pictures of the visit on social media and their website.

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They said that after responding from a difficult time himself, "Nizzy" was keen to help the young supporter who is also going through a tricky time. As well as Ava, her younger brother Kai was also present and was made-up following the special visit.

Kai and Ava's parents Gary and Cara took the opportunity to chat with Kevin about Hibs, football and life, creating memories that will last a lifetime for the local family.

Ava and Kai were starstruck after meeting the in-form striker. (Hibernian FC)

On the visit, Kevin Nisbet told hibernianfc.co.uk: “I have been wanting to help young supporters for a while, so I contacted Edinburgh Sick Kids and I believe Ava just missed seeing us all around Christmas Day as she was admitted the day after.

“It was actually just before I scored a hat-trick that I arranged to go and see Ava, and her family, so after that hat-trick, I thought it was only right that I gave her the ball.

“She was speechless when I came in. She’s a lovely wee girl, she’s really strong, and she was absolutely buzzing, which was great to see.”

Alie Simpson, marketing and communications manager at Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “I’d just like to say a massive thank you, again, to Kevin for giving up his time and bringing those gifts to Ava.

“She was absolutely delighted, and her mum has told us that she hasn’t stopped smiling since!”

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