A GIRL who survived cancer met a former X Factor star when she was guest of honour at a major Cancer Research UK event.

Five-year-old Bethany Trickett from Bacup was invited as a special guest to the circus-themed Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens Star Awards party where she was able to meet Stacey Solomon, who came third in the sixth series of X Factor.

Bethany, who was just 17-months-old when she was diagnosed with a Wilms’ tumour in April 2011, was one of 20 children from across the UK who came together as special ambassadors to represent around 600 youngsters who have received awards in the last year.

Bethany’s mum Sheona Parry, 28, who is planning to run in the Witton Park Race for Life in June with Bethany as a VIP guest, said that she had a wonderful time doing crafts, games and circus activities and was especially excited to meet Stacey, who also won the 10th series of I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here .

She said: “Bethany really enjoyed herself. She especially loved the dancing and having her picture taken with Stacey, it was a really good day.

“It’s the first time she’s been to London and she really enjoyed the hotel and looking around.

“She’s made new friends and it’s been great to see her have so much fun and how she’s come on.”

The day’s entertainment also involved surprise performances from Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey, comedy double act Johnny and Inel and the cast of Horrible Histories live on tour.

The event was held in partnership with TK Maxx at The Roof Gardens in Kensington, London, on Saturday.

Bethany’s cancer was first revealed after her mum noticed a lump under her ribs when getting her ready for the bath.

She had an operation to remove the tumour and a kidney removed and endured four rounds of chemotherapy.

The Star Awards are part of the Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens fundraising campaign, which aims to accelerate research to find kinder treatments and cures for children, teens and young adults with cancer.

Alison Barbuti, Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens spokeswoman for Lancashire, said: “It is a privilege to be able to recognise the courage of youngsters like Bethany who have beaten this disease.

“Cancer has a devastating impact on children, forcing them to show incredible bravery beyond their years, so it was fantastic to see Bethany’s smile light up as she took part in our circus-themed party.”