CHILDREN at a hospice were treated to a magical day when Santa arrived by helicopter along with Emmerdale stars Gaynor Faye and Zoe Henry.

Yeadon-based Multiflight and Leeds Bradford Airport made it a Christmas to remember for children and their families at Martin House Hospice in Boston Spa on Monday when the annual Santa helicopter visit took place against a backdrop of blue skies and a covering of snow on the ground.

It had looked as though the visit would not happen, as the field used for landing the helicopter in previously is now a building site. But farmers Tim and Liz Clayton stepped in to save the day, offering an alternative landing site close to the hospice, and all the arrangements were put in place at short notice.

Multiflight provided a Dauphin helicopter to fly Santa in with presents. Among his helpers were Emmerdale actresses Gaynor, who plays Megan Macey, and Zoe, who plays Rhona Goskirk. Presents were provided by the airport, fire truck manufacturer Rosenbauer and Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

"This special Christmas treat for the children, their families and the staff at Martin House Hospice is a highlight of our year and we are thrilled it could happen again this year," said Linda Nicholls, Multiflight’s Charter Manager.

"We were delighted Gaynor Faye and Zoe Henry could 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, Gaynor and Zoe was a wonderful occasion for everyone at the hospice."

Phil Forster, Leeds Bradford Airport’s Aviation Development and Corporate Affairs Manager, said: “It’s magnificent to see the children’s faces light up when Santa arrives with his sack of presents and Gaynor and Zoe from Emmerdale 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, Director of Care at Martin House 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.

"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 £6.5 million annually to run the service for children and young people across West, East and North Yorkshire.

Visit www.martinhouse.org.uk to find out more or to make a donation.