A brave nine-year-old girl was sent a present from her football hero - thanks to the Colchester Evening Gazette.

The paper revealed how Emma O'Hagan was diagnosed with childhood cancer on the eve of the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

Learning that Emma's hero was soccer ace Michael Owen, Gazette chief reporter Laurence Cawley contacted him at Liverpool Football Club.

Laurence sent the club a copy of Emma's story and the kind-hearted striker decided to send Emma a large signed photograph.

A spokesman for Liverpool FC sent a letter passing on best wishes to Emma from all the players and staff at Liverpool Football Club.

Emma was delighted with the gift from her hero.

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