A HOLLYWOOD star appears to have formed a firm friendship with a Southend youngster after he was invited to a film premiere.

Iron Man actor Robert Downey Jr surprised patients at Great Ormond Street Hospital, including Ethan Miller, seven, earlier this week, by posing for photos.

But Ethan, who was "over the moon" to meet the American actor, had a further treat when Downey Jr invited him to the European premiere of his latest film, Captain America: Civil War.

Iron Man fan Ethan, who suffers from a rare blood disease and type one diabetes, was pictured on the red carpet in deep conversation with Downey Jr, as the pair renewed their earlier friendship.

Ethan's dad, Lee Miller, said: "Ethan was over the moon to meet his hero and it has really helped to lift his spirits."