Date: 23 Dec 2022
With Christmas renowned as a time for giving, Belfast City Airport teamed up with Age NI to give elderly residents of east Belfast the best start to this festive season.Playing host to a large group of men and women known to Age NI, the leading charity for older people in Northern Ireland, Belfast City Airport provided a warm welcome, sweet treats, jovial conversation, and individually wrapped gifts to every attendee.
The group was also treated to a musical performance by the charming choir of St Joseph’s Primary School and accompanied Santa and Mrs Claus in a dance around the terminal with other travellers.
The festive fun came as the airport prepared for its busiest day of the year, with almost 10,000 passengers expected to travel to and through Belfast City on 23rd December.
Speaking at the event, Stephen Patton, Human Resources and CR Manager at George Best Belfast City Airport, said:
“Community is at the heart of everything we do at Belfast City Airport and at the heart of Christmas as well, as friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues all come together in good spirit and fun.
“Due to the pandemic we have been unable to host events like this the past couple of years so it’s been truly wonderful to once again welcome Age NI and elderly residents of our local community to the terminal for an afternoon of Christmas cheer.
Praising the efforts of Age NI, Stephen continued:
“Age NI delivers fantastic work in our society all year round helping older people to thrive in the later stages of life, but it’s particularly invaluable around the winter months when loneliness and social isolation can take hold.
“Being able to partner with the organisation to bring a little light and laughter to the people of east Belfast this Christmas is a real privilege, and as a leader in responsible business, we are proud to once again give back to our local community.”
Age NI supports thousands of individuals, 55 and over, across Northern Ireland each year helping them to maintain their voice, live independently for as long as possible, find companionship and guidance, and love later life.
For more information, visit www.ageuk.org.uk/northern-ireland