Lapland trip lights up Elizabeth’s Christmas

Elizabeth Richardson: off to Lapland to see Santa

FOR eight-year-old Elizabeth Richardson this Christmas will be a magical one: she’s jetting off to Lapland to meet Santa Claus!

Elizabeth, from Fitton Hill, was born with a congenital heart defect and has faced gruelling operations and many hospital stays.

Impressed by her determination, staff at Liverpool’s Alder Hey Children’s Hospital suggested her for the once in a lifetime trip to Santa’s home.

Her mum Victoria said: “Elizabeth is so excited about it. She’s been counting down the days until she goes. At first she didn’t believe it, but as it gets closer she is starting to believe it more. Her letter to Santa is already packed.”

The trip has been organised by Northern Lights, a charity that gives childen with life-limiting illnesses unique Christmas holidays. Each year Northern LIghts takes 12 or more children from the North of England on a five-day, all-inclusive holiday to a luxury resort in Lapland.

Elizabeth, a pupil at Holy Rosary RC Primary School, is one of 20 youngsters who will enjoy the winter wonderland trip, which starts when they fly from Manchester early tomorrow. There will be sleigh rides, a tour of the elves’ toy workshop and lots more - including a meeting with santa.