The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust (NICLT) enjoyed a resounding fundraising success with its annual 'Walk to Scotland' fundraising event, which took place recently. 

Over 100 enthusiastic fundraisers participated, collectively raising over £14,000. These funds will play a crucial role in supporting this year's Lapland trip, meticulously coordinated by the charity and scheduled for December 19, 2023.

The 'Walk to Scotland' event, which is now a hugely popular tradition with the charity and among its supporters, has continued to grow in recent years, thanks to the unwavering support of Stena Line which accommodates the trip.

Participants boarded the ship early on Sunday morning, to walk an allocated route around the ship throughout the journey to Cairnryan.

The return leg of the trip featured a well-deserved lunch and a post-walk party that included entertainment from an array of talented performers. NICLT's President, Gerry Kelly, hosted the cabaret, which included DJ Col, magician Trevor Price, and Jim Brown as Elvis. A ballot during the trip added to the festivities and the amount of money raised.

Gerry Kelly, President, Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust  who is from Kilkeel said: “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in this year's 'Walk to Scotland' fundraising event. Their commitment, enthusiasm, and determination have not only made this event a resounding success but they have raised a remarkable £14,000, demonstrating the incredible power of our community when we come together for a common cause. 

“These funds are not just numbers; they will enable us to continue making dreams come true for our extraordinary young heroes.”

The annual Walk to Scotland event is an essential part of the charity’s fundraising efforts to facilitate the Lapland trip. Each year, this trip brings 100 young children from Northern Ireland, living with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions, to Rovaniemi, Santa’s beloved homeland. 

This magical experience includes meeting Santa, interacting with huskies, baking with Mrs. Claus, taking a magical train ride, and graduating from Elf school. Every detail of the trip is carefully planned to ensure the safety and comfort of all travellers, with medical staff and equipment onboard the three-hour flight for those with acute needs.

This year, the cost of the Lapland trip has increased significantly due to the cost of living crisis and surging fuel costs, making fundraising more critical than ever. The 'Walk to Scotland' event has become a cornerstone of NICLT's annual fundraising efforts.

For further information on NICLT and its mission, please visit NICLT Website.