Local families whose lives have been impacted by cancer had the chance to enjoy some festive cheer at the exclusive launch of Titanic Belfast’s Magical Christmas Experience on November 26.

Children whose parents have been diagnosed with cancer and their families were invited by Cancer Fund for Children to the world’s largest Titanic visitor experience to see Father Christmas arrive and abseil down the iconic building to launch the Magical Christmas Experience. The families had the chance to go back in time, explore a traditional Christmas Street, look up their names in the naughty or nice list and meet Father Christmas in his Old Curiosity Shop.

Mingling with a host of well-known Northern Ireland faces from the world of sport and entertainment, including Q Radio breakfast team’s Stephen Clements and Cate Conway who  played Mr and Mrs Clause on the night, the families were first to preview this year’s event.

The young people enjoyed festive games, dressing up, decoration making, story-telling and watching movies from a bygone era in the Ye Olde Picture House.

Cancer Fund for Children’s Services Manager Angela Rodgers, said: “We are so grateful to Titanic Belfast for inviting our families to be involved in the Magical Christmas Experience for the second year running.  At Christmas issues faced by families affected by cancer can become even more of a struggle. It is wonderful for families to be given a break from the stress of hospital visits, treatment and isolation through this unique event. Titanic Belfast and Cancer Fund for Children brought families together for a fun evening where they were able to relax, enjoy family time together and create lasting memories.

“This is just one of the ways we help make the lives of those affected by cancer a little more bearable at Christmas time. We also provide breaks at Daisy Lodge, our Therapeutic Short Break Centre in Newcastle Co. Down and offer self-catering breaks at our Cottages in Coleraine as well as giving families the opportunity to enjoy varied events and parties over the festive season.”

Titanic Belfast’s Chief Executive, Tim Husbands MBE, commented: “Christmas is a truly magical time of year and our Experience is all about embracing festive cheer and creating unique memories. Therefore, we are delighted and very pleased to add something special to the lives of these very deserving families this Christmas!”

Titanic Belfast’s Magical Christmas Experience runs until December 23. To book, visit www.titanicbelfast.com. For more information on Cancer Fund for Children and how you can fundraise so the charity can support more families, visit cancerfundforchildren.com.