Published: Monday, 10th November, 2008 4:05pm

Charlie meets her prince

by Rose Harland

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A GIRL with a rare disease has had a magical encounter with one of the stars of the Chronicles of Narnia films.

Charlie Cronin's dreams came true when she got to meet hunky actor Ben Barnes who plays Prince Caspian in the smash-hit film series.

Charlie, eight, who is living with lymphangiomatosis - a rare disease that affects the lymphatic system, enjoyed lunch with Ben thanks to the Make-A-Wish Foundation UK which grants wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening illnesses.

Ben, 27, said: "It was lovely to meet Charlie. It is always a joy to meet one of the very deserving Make-A-Wish children.

"I first became aware of this wonderful charity on the set of Prince Caspian and I immediately wanted to become more involved in helping the foundation to grant its truly magical and life-affirming wishes."

Charlie, who is from Easthampstead, met Ben in London on Friday and was thrilled when the actor gave her a Narnia bag and wristwatch as a gift.

She said: "Ben was really nice, and very friendly.

"He gave me a special Prince Caspian bag and then signed it for me."

Ben, whose latest film Easy Virtue premiered last week, is the latest celebrity to join Make-a-Wish's list of VIP patrons, and the young actor hopes to raise awareness of the work that Make-A-Wish does, be the face of Make-A-Wish at events, and try to meet as many wish children as possible.

Neil Jones, the charity's CEO, said: "Make-A-Wish is extremely proud to have Ben Barnes as a patron.

"His dedication and commitment will be a huge asset to the charity, and we are very honoured to welcome this popular rising film star to our team."