A SEVERELY ill youngster took to the skies to meet Santa on an aeroplane.

Dominic Blanchard, who has serious renal problems, was taken on his first flight by aviation charity fly2help and Thomas Cook Children’s Charity, on the promise of flying north to meet Santa.

But instead of visiting the North Pole, Father Christmas came and found him, landed his sleigh on the plane and came aboard to say hello.

Dominic’s father, Kevin, from Stanley, County Durham, said: “It was the experience of a lifetime.

“It was also Dominic’s first time on a plane. I’ve always been quite anxious about taking Dominic on a plane but he sat up like a big lad and I was so pleased at how he handled it.

“Now that I know he enjoys flying so much we have decided to go on our first family holiday abroad.”

He added: “There’s only one night a year that usually keeps Dominic from sleeping and that’s Christmas Eve, because he gets so excited for Santa’s arrival. The night before the flight was an exception because he barely slept with excitement.

“From stepping on to the plane to landing, we were fully entertained, especially by the pilot who took us on a mission to find Santa. Thank you to everyone who made the flight possible.”

Dominic receives care at St Oswald’s Hospice, in Newcastle.

Carole Dixon, the hospice’s children and young adults service manager, said: “At the hospice we try to help families creative positive memories, celebrate special moments, and enjoy quality time together.

“For Dominic and his dad, having the opportunity to fly with Santa is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“Thank you Thomas Cook Children’s Charity and fly2help for helping to make this Christmas for Dominic and his family extra special.”

Helen Tempest, from fly2help, said: “It’s so wonderful to see the children’s joy as they interact with everything around them.

“Their faces light up with excitement. It’s a privilege to be able to share this day with them.”

St Oswald’s Hospice provides free care for children and adults from across the North-East. It must raise £7m a year to cover its costs. Visit stoswaldsuk.org