It was an opportunity not to be missed when Redbridge got a phone call from the charity ‘Happy Days’ offering them places on a special flight from Manchester airport to see if they could find Father Christmas.
The pupils from Years 7, 9 and 11 were invited to attend the very special day organised by Thomas Cook, Happy Days and Manchester Airport.
On Tuesday 27th November we arrived at Terminal 1 and were met by Thomas Cook staff and escorted up to the Departure Lounge where there were a group of Carol Singers, a huge Panda called ‘Constable Cub’ and the Manchester Airport staff who gave everyone a Santa hat. When everyone had been checked in, we were taken through security to the departure gate where we could watch the planes taking off and landing.
Everyone was so excited listening to the Christmas music and looking out of the windows at the aeroplane and some people had Christmas trees or snowflakes painted on their faces with lots of Christmas sparkle added too.
After a quick lunch it was time to board the plane and when everyone was on we all had to flap our arms to help it to take off. After lots of flapping, cheering and a quick drink it was time for a rendition of Christmas Carols. Everyone was encouraged to sing really loudly and then the aeroplane wobbled from side to side as something magical happened. All the pupils were amazed as Father Christmas appeared and walked through the aeroplane wishing everyone a very merry Christmas.
The flight and special visit was over so quickly but everyone had a fantastic time and lots of special memories of the Santa flight and some people even saw themselves on Granada Reports in the evening.