CHRISTMAS came early for an inspirational boy battling a rare form of cancer.

Nine-year-old Finn Clancy, from Leigh, was diagnosed with Stage 4 rhabdomyosarcoma in September 2016. Over the past year, he has been forced to take time out from school to undergo gruelling chemotherapy.

Due to treatment on tumours on his pelvic, tumour and spine, Finn was very poorly last Christmas - meaning he was unable to celebrate the festive season.

To make up for all the fun Finn missed, he was invited to a special party hosted by Cancer Research UK. There was a sleigh, reindeer and even face snow to get guests into the Christmas spirit - five months before the big day.

His proud mum, Lorraine Mitchell, said: “Finn’s diagnosis was a huge shock for us all and Finn has been so brave, I can’t begin to tell you.

“It was so lovely to see him having a bonus Christmas in summertime. He really enjoyed himself and we will all remember this day for a very long time.”

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a form of soft tissue tumour which affects fewer than 60 children in the UK each year.

Thankfully, Finn’s condition has improved. His consultant told the family most of his tumours have disappeared and the remaining ones are currently inactive.

Finn has commenced chemotherapy maintenance treatment for a year and has recently completed a course of radiotherapy to his lungs. His consultants are also considering further treatment options for him.

The Harry Potter and Lego fan aspires to become a famous Vlogger and has started his own YouTube channel - Finnthephoenix:firedup.

Ms Mitchell said Vlogging has been a good distraction for him during the chemotherapy sessions.

She said: “He has missed nearly a whole year of school and all the activities a normal nine-year-old should be enjoying. Despite this, Finn is still smiling and has been so positive, we are super proud of him.”

Around 20 attended the Kids and Teens Star Awards party, held in London in partnership with TK Maxx.

Santa and popular children’s TV show host Mister Maker paid a special visit.

Danielle Glavin, Cancer Research UK spokesman, praised Finn for his positive attitude. She said: “It is an absolute privilege to be able to recognise Finn’s bravery. He has been through so much at such a young age and yet he is still smiling. He really is a true star.

“Cancer can have a major impact on children and young people, forcing them to show incredible courage beyond their years.

“More than eight in ten children aged up to 14-years-old who are diagnosed with cancer in the UK now survive for at least five years. Around 2,400 young people are diagnosed with cancer every year.” To donate, visit cruk.org/kidsandteens.