Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

James McClean surprises Derry twins with heartwarming trip to Disneyland

This is the heartwarming moment James McClean surprised Derry twins whose father passed away suddenly in April.

Aoife and Adam Burke, who turn four on Sunday, had a fun-feasted weekend as they were joined by the Mayor of Derry and his wife Cheryl with the children's favourite cartoon characters, Mickey and Minnie Mouse on Friday.

In April, the siblings' world turned upside down when their daddy, Thomas, died at the age 29.

Mr Burke, also known as 'Burkie', was a former footballer playing for a number of clubs during his career including Ballymena United and Derry City.

The twins' mother, Bronagh Burke, said she just wanted to do everything she could to give her children a special birthday after "going through so much pain".

An appeal on June 1 for the twins on their birthday has seen over 3000 cards come from around the world - including Australia, USA and across Europe.

"They have been through so much pain. They are still dealing with a lot and they are on a journey, like I am as well.

"The likes of a small card can just mean so much for them and if it makes them happy and gives them a smile on their face then my job is done," Bronagh added.

"I think Burkie would be beyond proud and he would be so honoured the way Derry and throughout the world have acknowledged them."

Among the cards was a special one from Republic of Ireland and Stoke City footballer James McClean and his wife Erin.

In a video sent to the twins, McClean said: "Hey Adam and Aoife. It's James McClean here.

"I just want to wish you a big happy fourth birthday and I hope you enjoy your surprise trip to Disneyland. Have a good day."

Bronagh said she the amount of cards and parcel they received had left the family 'astounded' and added that she would never be able to repay the kindness shown to her family.

She said: "Thank you everybody for all the cards, we are forever grateful and we can't believe we are going to Disneyland.

"We are absolutely delighted and we are over the moon for all 3000 cards. Thank you so much."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.