Pilots and support staff from the Red Arrows have met children being treated at two hospitals, as part of Christmas visits.
Members of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team were humbled to see youngsters, parents and staff from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and also Lincoln County Hospital, in separate events this month.
The Red Arrows’ relationship with the world-renowned children’s hospital in London is now in a remarkable 20th year.
During that period, individuals from the team have visited wards to greet and hopefully bring some festive cheer to the children.
However, this year, instead of going to the hospital itself, the Red Arrows were invited to attend the patients’ Christmas parties at a nearby venue.
Flying Officer Michael Fox, Public Relations Officer for the Red Arrows and who coordinated the visit on behalf of the team, said: “The function room was superbly decorated by the GOSH team.
“The Red Arrows assisted by setting up a table, with posters and stickers for the kids to take away with them. We also took our virtual reality headsets for the children to get a taste of what it is like to fly in the aircraft as well as a flying helmet, which they could try on.
“Each party was attended by up to 500 patients and their families and the reaction was amazing.
“It was a privilege for the team to be there in the run-up to the festive period and certainly very humbling to learn more about the excellent care the children receive at GOSH.”
Meanwhile, members of the Blues – the Red Arrows’ support team – visited young people being treated at Lincoln County Hospital.
They went to the Rainforest & Safari children's wards, where they met patients and distributed posters and stickers.
Corporal Joseph Carey, one of the Blues who visited the hospital and coordinated the event, said: “We receive so much support from the public throughout our display season – especially in the local community.
"So, it means a lot that we are able to give something back, particularly at this time of year."
