More than 50 children with serious or life-limiting illnesses departed on a dream trip to Orlando from Manchester Airport.

The all-expenses-paid break was organised by ChildFlight, a North-West children’s charity which provides flights and holidays for children who are unwell or living in challenging circumstances.

This was arranged in conjunction with Manchester Airport, TUI Airways and the TUI Care Foundation.

Stephen Sefton, Chair of Childflight, said: “This trip is pretty special, we’re taking 54 families, plus five doctors, eight nurses, and team leaders, with all expenses paid, even spending money.

“For many of these kids, it’s their first ever holiday abroad, so it’s going to be an exciting and emotional couple of weeks, and one made of memories to last a lifetime.

“Many of these families are living through extremely trying times in their lives, so it’s fantastic to be able to put smiles back on their faces for the next 12 days.”

The children, aged between 5 and 16, travelled with family members on the specially chartered flight operated by TUI Airways.

Robert Pattison, Head of Community Engagement at Manchester Airport, said: “We’re proud of the role the airport plays in its local community, whether that’s as a major local employer, a donor to good causes through our Community Trust Fund, or through supporting initiatives such as this.”

While Jamie Ross, TUI Cabin Crew, said: “Being part of this special trip is a real privilege for our crew.

“Seeing the children’s faces light up as we take off is pure joy, a reminder that we’re helping create unforgettable memories for families on an adventure they’ll treasure forever.

“Beyond operating the flight, we stay for the full 12 nights in Florida, supporting the charity and doing everything we can to help make this the holiday of a lifetime.”

During their nearly two-week stay in Florida, their itinerary includes relaxing poolside days and pool parties.

There will also be days out at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, visits to the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom followed by thrill rides at Epcot.

They’ll also head to Disney Hollywood Studios for a special meet-and-greet with Mickey Mouse himself and wrap up the trip with a bit of shopping in Orlando’s Old Town entertainment district.

ChildFlight was started in 1987 and is based at Manchester Airport.

Since 1991 they run a bi-annual ‘Holiday of a Lifetime’ to Orlando, Florida along with a ‘Search for Santa’ for children that have missed out due to illness or socially deserving.

They also provide medical flights for treatments currently not available in the UK.

To find out more head to their website here.