Children at Watford General Hospital are enjoying a new therapeutic room thanks to the fundraising efforts of a local rugby club.

The sensory room at the Starfish ward was officially opened by Lola McCabe, 6, and her family on May 20 after the Fullerians rugby club raised £20,000 for the appeal.

Watford Observer: Lola McCabe and her mum at the new sensory room at Watford General.Lola McCabe and her mum at the new sensory room at Watford General. (Image: West Herts Hospitals Charity)Lola, who has been diagnosed with leukemia, inspired eight Fullerians to cycle from their Cassiobury Park club to Paris on March 16, completing the 355km journey two days later.

Watford Observer: The Fullerians in Paris after completing the 355km journey in March 2022.The Fullerians in Paris after completing the 355km journey in March 2022.  Dad Richard McCabe said: “The care Lola has received at Watford General has been amazing. 

“It has been an honour to put all of our love, efforts, and hard-earned money towards a project close to our hearts and maybe even something that will help a future Fullerian, friend or family member in the future.”

Watford Observer: Willow and Lola McCabe playing in the new sensory room.Willow and Lola McCabe playing in the new sensory room. (Image: West Herts Hospitals Charity)

The sensory room is a therapeutic space for the young patients going through difficult treatment at the hospital, and the money raised also funded a new aquarium in the children’s ward.

Watford Observer: Richard, Willow, Lola and Emma McCabe pictured centre, with the Ride for Lola Team and their £20,000 donation to the Starfish Ward.Richard, Willow, Lola and Emma McCabe pictured centre, with the Ride for Lola Team and their £20,000 donation to the Starfish Ward. (Image: West Herts Hospitals Charity)Starfish ward manager Kerry Beasley added: “This is an amazing achievement that will bring hours of pleasure to all the children on the Starfish ward during their stay in hospital.

“A great big thank you to all involved, seeing children play in the sensory room is so wonderful.”

Watford Observer: Lola McCabe (front) and her family with the Fullerians RFC community, cutting the ribbon.Lola McCabe (front) and her family with the Fullerians RFC community, cutting the ribbon. (Image: West Herts Hospitals Charity)