A YOUNG boy from Penarth who suffers from cancer was a guest of honour at a special party held in London recently.

Eight-year-old Benjamin O’Doherty attended the Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens Star Awards party, held in partnership with TK Maxx at a special venue in the capital city.

The magical winter wonderland themed party, held in the middle of the UK’s summertime, gave children and their families - some of whom have missed out on festive celebrations in the past due to cancer treatment - a memorable experience together.

Benjamin attended with his younger brother Alexander aged five and his mum Claire O'Doherty and dad Lee O'Doherty

The Llandough Primary schoolboy was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis in 2015 before it was revealed that he has cancer.

Benjamin, who loves watching football and supporting Liverpool, has endured in the past two years chemotherapy treatment, daily steroids, blood transfusions and weeks spent in treatment at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.

At the party, he took part in a variety of winter themed arts and craft activities including decorating snowflakes, snow globes and gingerbread biscuits, as well as making reindeer head bands to wear at the party.

He was also given the opportunity to spend time with Santa in his winter grotto.

Twenty children and young people who have also been affected by cancer joined Benjamin for the action packed day. They were also treated to performances by the hugely popular children’s TV presenter Mister Maker.

Mrs O'Doherty explained: "Benjamin’s consultant was looking at suitable long term medicine as he was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis in 2015 and his bloods were examined over the course of that year, which set alarm bells ringing as it highlighted he had a low white blood count.

"We were told he would need a bone marrow biopsy to rule out Leukaemia, but unfortunately the result was devastating.

"To be told our then six year old son had cancer of the blood was heartbreaking news no parent should hear."

The Star Awards are part of Cancer Research UK’s Kids and Teens fundraising and awareness campaign which aims to accelerate research into finding new, better and kinder treatments for children, teens and young adults with cancer.

Alison Birkett, Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens spokeswoman said: "It is an absolute privilege to be able to recognise the strength of youngsters like Benjamin who have been through so much at such a young age. He is a true star.

"Cancer can have a major impact on children and young people, forcing them to show incredible courage beyond their years, so it was fantastic to see Benjamin’s smile light up as he took part in our winter wonderland themed party.

"Our mission is to save the lives of more children and young people diagnosed with cancer in Wales and across the UK, by finding new better and kinder treatments.

"It was a total joy to meet Benjamin and his family again – we hope they’ve had a fantastic time and created some amazing memories together."

TK Maxx’s support of the Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens Star Awards is part of a year-round fundraising partnership including its clothing collection campaign, Give Up Clothes for Good.

To donate or fundraise in support of Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens, visit cruk.org/kidsandteens.