A HAMPSHIRE youngster with an inoperable brain tumour has been spending time with the stars in New York City.

Brooke Leavey and her family had been shopping in Schwarz Toy Store when they bumped into award-winning actress Whoopi Goldberg.

The ten-year-old had been visiting the USA where she had been receiving specialist medical treatment.

The star of Sister Act spent time with the Leavey family and after hearing their story bought Brooke and her sister Amelia a Build-A-Bear each.

She also bought a "Do It For Brooke" bracelet to show support for the Hedge End youngster.

A spokesperson for the Leavey family said: "You will not believe who is now the proud owner of a Do It For Brooke band? A huge thank you to the amazing Whoopi Goldberg who not only took the time to stop and chat to Brooke and the Leavey’s today but also bought the girls a Build-A-Bear each. Absolutely lost for words."

4th July

Hampshire residents previously rallied together to raise money for Brooke's medical costs.

A Facebook page called “Do it for Brooke – A Community comes together” was set up to keep people updated on how she is doing and of any fundraising plans.

The Leaveys received the devastating news that Brooke had a tumour on her brain stem earlier in the year.

The Berrywood Primary School student underwent a six-week intensive course of radiotherapy treatment to shrink it at University College London Hospital.

After a momentous effort from friends, family and community more than £140,000 was raised to fund private treatment in the USA and which is not currently available on the NHS.

Brooke has received good results from her latest MRI scan showing that radiation has "done its job", and she has now been accepted for a drug trial.

The Leavey family have three more visits to NYC to fit in before Christmas for check-ups.

The family spokesperson added: "We want to thank everyone in the community and further afield for their incredible support and generosity. This treatment could not have happened if it wasn’t for every one of you.

We are doing this people. This is what it’s all been for. And we can’t stop now, we want to have the option to try anything and everything to give Brooke the best chance. New York, you have been very kind to the Leavey family."

To donate visit www.gofundme.com/f/help-10yr-old-Brooke-get-specialist-treatment.