It’s Good News Friday as this week we celebrate the BBC Children in Need’s Surprise Squad’s visit to the North West!

Currently embarking on a journey across the UK, the Surprise Squad are undertaking surprise challenges for Children in Need funded projects that need a boost. From creating a secret garden, to organizing a much-needed community fundraising event, the group is made up of five inspirational young people who want to give back and lend a helping hand to others.

Chamber member Loganair has been proud to support the Squad by gifting flights from London Stansted to City of Derry Airport, providing them with the opportunity to support an unsuspecting group based in the North West. Landing in City of Derry Airport, the team’s project was then showcased on the One Show on BBC One on Tuesday 16th of November at 7pm.

Among the five members of the Surprise Squad is 16-year-old Roisin, who had a stroke aged 14, resulting in life-changing disabilities. Roisin had to relearn how to walk, talk and eat and has been supported by Brain Injury Matters who deliver a youth empowerment project with funding from BBC Children In Need. Roisin, who is from the North West, said, “Being part of the Surprise Squad is a huge achievement for me. I’m really looking forward to helping make a difference that will benefit others. I hope that those who can do, donate.”

Kay Ryan, Loganair’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The services that BBC Children in Need funded projects provide are invaluable to children and families across the UK. The challenges that are being undertaken by the Surprise Squad will make a positive impact on the projects and we’re proud to show our support and provide flights for part of their journey.”

Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport added, “BBC Children in Need is a charity that is very close to our hearts. We were proud to join together with the Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, in providing a warm, ‘Walled City’ welcome to the Surprise Squad when they landed in the North West.”

“It was particularly special given that Roisin of the Surprise Squad is local to the city, and as with the rest of the team, she is a truly inspirational young person. City of Derry Airport is supporting the squad’s activity with the facility for donations throughout the airport this week.”

Children In Need will take place on BBC One tonight from 7pm-10pm. For details on how to donate and support The Surprise Squad for BBC Children in Need please visit www.bbc.co.uk/pudsey.