Cowell makes Disney dream come true for girl in cancer battle

Megan Kershaw, from the village of Misson, near Doncaster, has been fighting a rare form of liver cancer for the past two-and-a-half years.

Since she was first admitted to hospital and drew up a "wish list" of things she would like to do, friends and family have been fundraising to fulfil her dreams and take her to Disney World in Florida.

Music mogul Mr Cowell has been so moved by Megan's

story that he has offered to pay for the family's flights and accommodation, as well as the chance to swim with dolphins on the day of her 13th birthday.

Megan's mother, Deborah Kershaw, said: "People have been so generous raising money for Megan, and now Simon Cowell has been so generous too. His help has really made it the trip of a lifetime.

"I think he was touched by Megan's story and her determination to beat cancer. Mickey and Minnie Mouse are Megan's favourites, and it will be great to see her with them.

"It is going to be really emotional for me to see her finally getting to Disney after all we've been through. I think I will get through quite a few tissues."

Due to Mr Cowell's donation, the money already raised by Megan's friends and family will be spent on other treats for the schoolgirl while she is in the US.

Well-wishers had been campaigning to raise money for the Disney holiday for more than two years, ever since Megan first drew up her wish list.

The idea behind it was to give her things to look forward to and she has so far managed to cross everything off the list except two items – the Disney trip and getting a puppy.

Ms Kershaw added: "It has got her through her treatment. It is great that she can now go to Disney World because she's doing so well. She is so excited – she can't wait and she's counting the days down. It is lovely to see her like that."