Dream trip to Lapland

Christmas came early for sick youngsters who travelled to visit Santa in Lapland thanks to a Lanarkshire charity.

The Les Hoey MBE Dreammaker Foundation took five children with life-limiting illnesses and their parents to meet the real Father Christmas in Finland on December 22.

The kids and their parents travelled alongside a paramedic, Les and Dreammaker assistant Laura for the trip of a lifetime.

It was 24 hours packed full of festive fun and adventure.

The group set off at 7am and flew to the North Pole.

Flight attendants on board the TUI flight made sure the kids were geared up for what lay ahead. They played festive songs, had dance-offs with the kids, provided puzzles and delicious food.

They even invited the youngsters into the cockpit to meet the pilot.

When the kids arrived at the winter wonderland they had the chance to meet Santa after embarking on a train journey through magical caves.

“They went snowboarding, husky riding, drove snowmobiles and caught up with Santa’s little helpers,” said Les.

He added: “It was fantastic to see the wee Dreammakers so excited and enjoying themselves after such a hard year.

“They even got to sit in the cockpit of the plane. That’s our final event of 2018, but Team Dreammaker have so many plans for next year and can only do it with your help and support.

“Thank you and Merry Christmas.”