A seven-year-old Harry Potter fan battling cancer was delighted to attend a virtual party featuring appearances from film stars.

Benjamin Hine, from Canterbury, is undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and has been shielding with his family since March.

In the gruelling few years since he was diagnosed in 2017, Benjamin has fought the cancer "exceptionally bravely", and is finally due to complete his treatment this October.

His mum said: "It’s been a very hard three years as Benjamin has suffered from many known and unknown side effects of treatment and has struggled a lot with pain. But he is exceptionally brave and pushes through it.

"He has just been awarded ‘star of the term’ in his school, partly for his bravery and positive attitude."

During the pandemic, Benjamin has been forced to shield at home, which his mum says he has coped with "like a superstar".

But on Friday, he and his family were invited to attend a special Harry Potter virtual event hosted by childhood cancer research charity Children with Cancer UK.

The event, held on Harry Potter’s birthday via Zoom, aimed to spread joy to about 30 families that are affected by childhood cancer, and have been shielding due to coronavirus.

It included special video messages from Harry Potter stars Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the hugely popular film franchise; Evanna Lynch, who starred as Luna Lovegood; and Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom.

Benjamin was delighted to win a best-dressed competition for his Harry Potter costume.

His mum said: "He loved the party, especially when he was asked to demonstrate his dance moves.

“Virtual events are so important because we have been exceptionally restricted and obviously unable to attend any parties or see any family and friends - it has introduced a bit of much-needed fun to lockdown.”

Children with Cancer UK events manager Samantha Lloyd added: “Due to the coronavirus pandemic we have sadly had to postpone or cancel our events and special days out for families affected by cancer this year.

"However, we are determined to keep supporting children and families when they need it most - and with the help of our partners at StarDust Kids, we hope this virtual Harry Potter party helped spread a little joy and magic during these challenging times.”

For more information about Children with Cancer UK's events for families affected by cancer, visit the charity's website.

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