FOOTBALLER James McClean shocked Derry twins Aoife and Adam Burke with a present of a trip to Disneyland Paris for their fourth birthday.
The youngsters celebrated their big day on Sunday, two months after their father Thomas died suddenly at the age of 29.
The twins’ mum, Bronagh, had asked people through social media to send her children birthday cards to help them cope with their loss.
The appeal went viral and by Sunday the family had received more than 3,000 cards from all over Ireland and Britain and as far away as Australia and the US.
The appeal also sparked an outpouring of support and generosity.
Derry YouTube star Adam B (Beales) surprised the family last week with gifts for Adam and Aoife and a new Citroen C4 car for their mum.
Mayor Brian Tierney also visited the family along with their favourite Disney characters, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and the celebrations culminated on Sunday with a surprise message from Stoke City player James McClean along with tickets for Disneyland.
The Republic of Ireland star said: “I thought I would wish you a big, very happy fourth birthday and I hope you enjoy your surprise trip to Disneyland. Have a good day.”
Mrs Burke said the family was overwhelmed by the generosity shown to them since her husband, a prominent football coach in Derry, passed away.
“I think Burkey would be beyond proud. I think he would be so honoured the way Derry and throughout the world have acknowledged them (Adam and Aoife),” she said.
