Families from across South Wales were accompanied on the charities annual Lapland trip by Miss UniverseGB, Clair Cooper, Miss Charity Ceri Booth, Miss Cardiff, Kathryn Lane and Mister Wales, Mark Tancock.

It was an early 5am start for all the families, but by the time they were on the flight and singing Christmas carols they were all wide awake!

After a festive 3 hour flight the families touched down in a very chilly Rovinami. Everyone was astonished by the -30 temperature that met them as they got off the plane! And so they were very quickly whisked off to pick up their thermal suites and boots.

Once everyone was suitably kitted out for the freezing conditions the fun could begin. There was lot’s for everyone to see and do, including snow mobiling, husky dog rides, reindeer rides and even a search for Santa clause! Everyone also made regular stops at the tepee, which served hot chocolate and cookies, which helped them keep warm.

All of the children had a magical experience when they went to see the big man himself; he knew these special children were coming and already knew what each of them wanted for Christmas.

At 6pm it was time to head back to the airport and although everyone was cold and tired they were reluctant to leave the magical winter wonderland.

The flight home was very quite, as all the children fell asleep dreaming of their very special day in Lapland.

They had one more surprise to come, when they were met in the airport arrivals by Sarah Cornelius the CEO of the charity. She had bought special gifts for all the children and their families to round off what was a very magical and special day.

Photos will hopefully follow from the families, but as the temperature was so cold most peoples cameras actually froze!!

Some Photos from the trip