The six-year-old, battling a brain stem tumour, was delighted when she got a chance to shine on stage in Sleeping Beauty alongside the world famous Chisinau National Ballet.

Amelia's special wish – to be Cinderella for the day – saw her meet the cast, enjoy a backstage tour, tuck into a Sleeping Beauty
picnic and receive a beautiful ballerina costume of her very own.

Proud parents Paula and Jason, from Tarleton, near Preston, were there to share the special moment as their brave daughter took centre stage at Manchester's Opera House this week as an honorary cast member in the ballet.

Mum Paula said Amelia is a star and told how the day brought a tear to their eyes.

She added: "It was lovely. We took lots of photos. They really did make a fuss of Amelia and make it special for her."

The Tarleton Community School pupil, who was diagnosed last year, is currently undergoing a course of chemotherapy.

Amelia's wish was granted courtesy of Ellen Kent and Ballet International and Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, whose aim is to grant the wishes of children and young people fighting life-threatening illnesses.

Sally Stevens, press officer for Ellen Kent and Ballet International, said it was a "complete pleasure" to meet Amelia and said: "We find it so rewarding working with Make a Wish, and such a pleasure and a privilege to meet children like Amelia who are fighting life-threatening illnesses and are so courageous, yet still have an overwhelming character.

"It was great to see her dream come true on stage."

With the help of volunteers, celebrities and individual sponsors, Make-A-Wish Foundation UK has granted over 4,500 wishes since it began in 1986.