Seriously and terminally ill children reach new heights at fun day near Daventry

On Saturday June 25, 150 seriously and terminally ill children enjoyed a very special flying day in Preston Capes with national children’s charity Starlight Children’s Foundation.

The flying day was organised by Starlight, which grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children and provides entertainment in hospitals and hospices across the UK.

The event was generously hosted by the Arblaster family of Red House Farm and was attended by seriously and terminally ill children and their families from Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas.

This was Starlight’s first ever Sky High Escape in Preston Capes. The children enjoyed an exhilarating day of flying in helicopters and light aircraft, topped off by a fifteen minute display from the Blades Aerobatic Team, a group of four former Red Arrow pilots.

For those who preferred to remain on terra firma there was plenty to keep them entertained – from face painting and glitter tattoos to giant games, an entertainer and the local fire brigade. There was also a barbecue, ice cream and cakes baked by the local WI to keep the families well fed.

Neil Swan, Starlight’s chief executive, said: “What a fantastic debut year for Starlight’s Sky High Escape Day!

“It was a delight for us to see so many happy faces throughout the day. For children who are undergoing treatment for serious illnesses days like today give them something wonderful to look forward to and happy memories to treasure with their families.

“We are incredibly grateful to Geoff and Jane Arblaster and their family, along with the many local volunteers and sponsors who helped make the day such a success.“