Santa to fly in to local hospice

The company is providing a Dauphin helicopter from its fleet of VIP charter helicopters to fly Santa in with presents, and among Santa’s helpers will be Emmerdale cast members, including Zoe Henry, who plays Rhona Goskirk in the popular television soap.

Waiting to greet them at the hospice will be children, parents, family members and hospice staff.

Multiflight and Leeds Bradford Airport have joined forces again this year to provide a helicopter and presents for a special treat for the children, young people and their families.

“This special Christmas treat for the children, their families and the staff at Martin House Hospice is a highlight of our year,” said Linda Nicholls, Multiflight’s Charter Manager.

“We are delighted Emmerdale actors can join us this year.

“Martin House Hospice is a fantastic, deserving charity which we have proudly supported for a number of years and the arrival of Santa and the Emmerdale stars is sure to be a wonderful occasion for everyone at the hospice.”

Tony Hallwood, Leeds Bradford Airport’s Aviation Development Director, said: “It’s magnificent to see the children’s faces light up when Santa arrives with his sack of presents and the Emmerdale cast members have added an extra element of surprise.

“We love to be part of this visit, creating a truly memorable day for children and families at Martin House Children’s Hospice.”

Clair Holdsworth, Interim Director of Care at Martin House Children’s Hospice, said: “Santa arriving in his helicopter is one of the most exciting events in our Christmas calendar.

“The children, families and staff eagerly await his arrival and love to watch the helicopter circle and land.”

Clair added: “Some of the children are too poorly or find it difficult to visit Santa in his grotto and it is lovely to be able to bring Santa to them and for the children and their families to experience this wonderful event.

“A visit to the hospice by Santa in a helicopter is a very special occasion for the children and their families and a memory they can treasure. We want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making it happen.”

The hospice needs to raise £6 million annually to run the service, providing community care and also care at its purpose built hospice in Boston Spa, Wetherby, for children and young people across West, East and North Yorkshire. Martin House offers family-led care for children with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses. It is a place where children, young people and their families can stay from time to time along their journey and find support, rest and practical help. Last year the hospice supported more than 400 children and young people and their families and also 150 bereaved families.