Two families enjoyed a wonderful morning out on the Polar Express steam train from Swanage Railway Station to the North Pole.
The tickets had been generously donated by the Mayor of Swanage, Tina Foster, who chose Lewis-Manning Hospice Care as her Christmas charity.
Hospice Family Support & Bereavement Lead Jo Sharkey said, “Thanks to the Mayor’s generosity we were able to treat 2 very grateful families to this magical trip, families that during 2023 have accessed our family bereavement counselling service.
It was a wonderful and enjoyable experience, an amazing opportunity for the children, so much fun but also tinged with a thread of emotion after what has happened in these children lives this year, it was a very poignant time.
“The trip comprised an hour-long journey during which actors appeared as characters from the book and film of The Polar Express. There was never a dull moment as we were entertained with singing, dancing and actors interacting with all the guests on the train.
“We were treated to a delicious hot chocolate drink and a Polar Express cookie and on returning to Swanage, Father Christmas presented the children with a special gift. We were brilliantly entertained and spoiled!”
The children commented, “We loved it, it was great fun and very exciting! Thank you to the Mayor for making this possible for us to enjoy!”