THIRTY CHILDREN FROM Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin went on a very special trip this weekend to meet Santa as he prepared his sleigh and gifts to deliver to Ireland this Christmas.

The Aer Lingus Regional Santa Express, operated by Aer Arann, departed Dublin Airport with over 60 passengers including children, parents and hospital staff from Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin to visit Santa.

The group was driven by Garda escort from the hospital to Dublin Airport to catch the Aer Lingus Regional Santa Express to London Southend Airport where they met with Santa.

The children were accompanied by Santa’s elves on the Aer Lingus Regional Santa Express and treated to a day of fun at Santa’s grotto and Adventure Island before flying back to Dublin.

Geraldine Regan, Deputy CEO and Director of Nursing at Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin said that “having a child with a serious illness puts a lot of strain on families, particularly at this time of year.”

“The Aer Lingus Regional Santa Express was a truly magical fun day out for the children and their families.”

“I would like to sincerely thank all of the staff and volunteers from Aer Lingus Regional and London Southend airport for making this day possible for the children and their families and for their ongoing support to the hospital,” she said.