THE dreams of an eight-year-old boy who was diagnosed with leukaemia came true when he and his family went on a Greek cruise.

James Hawkins, from Bosbury, near Ledbury, had his wish granted by Starlight Children’s Foundation, the UK’s leading wish-granting charity for children with serious and terminal illnesses.

James was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2007, and had to undergo an intensive form of treatment and spent a lot of time in hospital away from his friends.

When he was referred to Starlight for a once-in-a-lifetime wish, James, who is fascinated by the idea of a ‘hotel ship’, asked to go on a cruise around the Greek Islands with his family.

James, whose interests include Star Wars, cricket and snorkelling, spent seven nights aboard the Pearls of the Aegean with his parents Katie and Anthony and sisters Alexandra, aged 11, and baby Matilda.

Starting from Corfu the ship sailed to a number of Greek destinations including Athens, Crete, Mykonos and Katakolon.

Mrs Hawkins said: “The ship was fabulous and the staff were beyond helpful. Jamie had the most fun of any eight- year-old boy and is a firm and ardent Starlight fan.”

Starlight grants once-in-a-lifetime wishes for seriously and terminally ill children, restoring the magic and fun of childhood and giving the whole family happy memories to share, whatever the future holds.

The charity also creates entertainment in every hospital and hospice throughout the UK.

Sick children go to Starlight parties, laugh their way through pantomimes, go out on Starlight Escapes, play games and watch films on the Starlight Fun Centre, and enjoy the toys and puzzles of the Starlight Distraction Box.

To refer a brave child like James or to make a donation, simply log on to starlight.org.uk or call 020 7262 2881.

For every £1 donated, more than 91p goes towards helping Starlight’s very ill children.