Snowball fights with the stars from Coronation Street, a trip to see Santa and a huskie ride in the snow all gave the Cleveleys' youngster a magical day to remember.

Now Neave, 11, is looking forward to Christmas at home with her family.

But just six months ago, the future was clouded with uncertainty.

In April, the Larkholme Primary pupil discovered a lump on her leg which was diagnosed as a soft tissue sarcoma – a type of skin cancer.

Neave was rushed to Christie's Hospital in Manchester where she underwent six gruelling hours of surgery.

Sessions of radiotherapy followed and at Easter she underwent a series of painful skin grafts which left her unable to walk for five weeks.

Neave is now recovering well and despite three monthly checkups – she returned to school and this week took part in their nativity play.

To reward her bravery – mum Anna-Marie nominated her for the Lapland treat which was organised by charity Make A Wish Foundation.

Anna-Marie, 37, from Manor Drive, said: "We can't wait to have Christmas together as a family this year.

"Neave's diagnosis was so hard for all of us, but she has been fanastically brave, she amazes me with her strength every day.

"It was so frightening when Neave found the lump, we didn't tell her what the diagnosis was until after the surgery because we didn't want her to fret but she's coped really well.

"Her brother Connor was doing his GCSE's at the time and him and my husband Mick pretty much had to fend for themselves because I didn't leave Neave's bedside.

"As long as she is ok, we are all ok, we really are looking forward to spending a special Christmas together."

Neave was one of a handful of children picked for the Lapland treat by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The charity grants magical wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening illnesses.

Anna-Marie and Neave spent a night at a Manchester hotel before being jetted off to Lapland for the day on Tuesday. Anna-Marie added: "Neave had an amazing time, she loved meeting the stars and Santa, I'm sure she'll never forget it. The support from Christies, Make a Wish and cancer charity Clic Sargant has been amazing."

Neave also gave her Lapland trip a thumbs-up. She said: "I loved having a snowball fight with the celebrities, it was such a nice day. Now I can't wait for Christmas."