Santa made his annual visit to Martin House, swapping his usual reindeer and sleigh for a helicopter ride.

Santa made the trip, alongside Emmerdale stars Chris Chitell (aka Eric Pollard) and Joshua Richardson (wrestler Bear Wolf), thanks to private aviation firm Multiflight, who flew them in from Leeds Bradford Airport.

They handed out gifts to children staying at Martin House, who also got to watch Santa arriving by helicopter.

Clair Holdsworth, director of care at Martin House, said: “Santa arriving in his helicopter is one of the highlights of our Christmas calendar. Many of the children who come to Martin House are too poorly or find it difficult to visit Santa in his grotto, so it is lovely to be able to bring Santa to them in such a special way.
 
“Santa’s visit to Martin House in a helicopter is a special memory the whole family can treasure, and we want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in making it happen.” 

Multiflight joined forces with digital marketing company Infoserve to bring Santa and provide presents for everyone.

Hayley Drake, Multiflight’s charter manager, said: “We absolutely love being part of this special Christmas visit to Martin House Hospice, which is a real treat for the children, their families and the staff; it is a highlight of our year.”

Derek Oliver, Infoserve chief executive, said: “Christmas is a special time for families and Infoserve is very pleased to be able to support this memorable day for children and families at Martin House by providing the presents. We are sure the day will be enjoyed, not only by the children, but also their families, friends and the very hardworking hospice staff.”