A BRAVE little boy who had his legs amputated after contracting meningitis has been treated to a surprise plane trip to find Father Christmas.

Louie Jenkins, one, from New Bath Street in Colne was one of 20 deserving children selected for a trip from Leeds Bradford Airport around the skies of the north of England.

Louie was joined by sister Francessca, five, mum Julie, 30 and dad Warren, 31, on the 90 minute flight.

They were greeted by characters Aladdin, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Widow Twanky, fairies and an array of Santa’s little helpers. They then took to the skies in search of Father Christmas who joined them on board the plane.

Louie lost both legs, the fingers on his left hand and the tips of the fingers on his right hand after contracting meningitis in January.

Julie said: “Louie was nominated for the trip by a play worker at Leeds General Infirmary. We kept the trip a surprise until that morning.

“Louie and Francessca were so excited. The children were told to dress up as their favourite fancy dress character, so Louie went as George from Peppa Pig and Francessca as Cinderella.

“When we arrived we were taken into the lounge where we were greeted by all the Disney and fairytale characters.

“It was really magical. We then boarded the plane where we took part in games and sung songs while we searched the skies for Santa.

“Part way through the flight the plane wobbled and we were told that Santa had come aboard. All the children had the chance to meet him and get a present. They also got to go into the cockpit.”

When they got back there was a buffet and the children had their pictures taken with Santa in his grotto.

“It was a fantastic day, one they will never forget,” said Julie.

The trip was organised by Ryanair and Leeds Bradford Airport.