Pupils from the Collegiate Grammar School had a day to remember recently when they got to meet football hero David Healy.

And to top off this experience they were able to do so in the spectacular setting of the 'Long Gallery' at Stormont.

Five lucky girls and their music teachers, Ann Bloomfield, Head of Music, and Stephen Magee, Brass Tutor, travelled to Stormont at the invitation of the Minister of the Environment, Arlene Foster. There, the Brass Ensemble were invited to play background music prior to a charity launch for two very worthy causes, Tiny Life and Heartbeat.

The group arrived at Stormont at 11:30am and played at a reception from mid-day prior to the charity launch.

With the added excitement of many journalists and TV cameras present, the group then played Northern Ireland hero David Healy into the 'Long Gallery' with, 'We're not Brazil, we're Northern Ireland!'

'It was really exciting and David was really nice, very modest but still one of Northern Ireland's best heroes,' said year nine pupil, Lauren Hutchinson.

After David's arrival, along with First Minister, Dr Ian Paisley and host Arlene Foster, the group had the opportunity for lunch along with many local politicians as well as listening to a question and answer session with David Healy and sports commentator, Jackie Fullerton.

"We really were delighted to be invited to play at such a high profile event and for the girls to have the opportunity to meet David Healy, such a sporting hero," said Ann.

"It was a great opportunity to highlight the ability of pupils from a school in the West of the province, and we thank the minister for allowing us to be part of such a prestigious event."

Mrs Foster spoke candidly about the day's events: "I am fortunate to be in a position where I can use the beautiful building of Stormont as a venue for this function.

"Knowing this, I wanted to organise something, specifically to fundraise for children's charities: to raise money for their vital work, but also to help raise their profile.

"One day, on my way to Stormont, I wondered who would be so kind to help me in this quest.

"I asked David Healy for his help. When David was approached, he did not hesitate".

She said Mr Healy had given up his free time to fly over and to be the guest of honour at the lunch, 'a true gentleman'.

"Additionally, when Jackie Fullerton was approached to come and help, he too willingly gave his time for this event without question.

"I am indebted to them both. This charity lunch was a mix of people from all walks of life, with one common goal, to raise money for Tiny life and Heartbeat."

Tiny life is a charity committed to helping premature babies, and of which David Healy is patron.

Heartbeat aids those who need help with heart defects. This charity is very closely linked to Jackie Fullerton.