A sick child who is only expected to live to the age of 12 has had his "dream come true" by meeting football legend David Beckham - thanks to the Western Gazette.

The paper reported in January how George Lee's parents were desperate for him to meet the star, and only a month later he realised his ambition after the Gazette approached Beckham's management company.

Eight-year-old George was left severely brain-damaged by a massive epileptic fit four years ago. He also suffers from spina bifida and asthma.

He has had 18 operations during his short life and his parents have been told he is unlikely to live beyond 12.

The family visited Arsenal's training ground where they watched the England football team train for this week's friendly against Portugal. Reporter David Bullock travelled with them to London for the day.

They met superstars John Terry (pictured) Wayne Rooney, Kieron Dyer and even team boss Sven-Goran Eriksson, but for the family the highlight of the day was meeting Real Madrid and England star David Beckham.

Speaking exclusively to the Western Gazette, Beckham revealed that he had felt moved to meet George after reading about his condition.

He said: "My wife and I get letters every day from certain charities but we prefer to do more personal things than anything else. Meeting face to face is better for the family and the way we prefer - it is more private.

"Victoria and I are fortunate in that we are in the lucky position where we can help people like George."

Beckham signed a cap for George and even gave him the shirt he was wearing as a souvenir.

George's parents were full of praise for Beckham and the England team.

His mum Serena said: "George deserved it, but I was gob-smacked when Beckham walked into the room. I felt like crying, but I thought, 'I can't do that'."

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