Video: Santa arrives in helicopter for hospice visit

The man in red gave Rudolph and the rest of the reindeers a day off as he hopped on a helicopter to visit Martin House Children’s Hospice, which is based near Wetherby.

Leeds Bradford Airport-based Multiflight loaned Father Christmas the impressive Dauphin helicopter for the day so he could give children and their families a Christmas to remember.

Children at the hospice in Boston Spa were also treated to gifts donated by Multiflight and the airport.

Sheila O’Leary, head of care at the hospice, said: “Santa arriving in his helicopter is one of the most magical visits to Martin House.

“Some of the children are too poorly or find it difficult to see Santa in his grotto and it is lovely to be able to bring Santa to them and for them to experience this memorable event.

“The children and adults are excited from the moment they get up. Mid-morning we all gather in the garden and listen for the gentle hum of the helicopter engine.”

She added: “We want to say a big thank you to everyone involved.”

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.

“We want to make sure that the children and families at Martin House Hospice have a really memorable day.”

Linda Nicholls, Multiflight’s charter manager, said: “It’s wonderful to be able to give the children, their families and the staff at the hospice a special Christmas treat.

“Martin House Hospice is a fantastic, deserving charity which we have proudly supported for a number of years.”

For more information about Martin House Children’s Hospice, or if you want to make a donation, visit the website at www.martinhouse.org.uk or follow them on Twitter @MartinHouseCH.