A SCHOOLGIRL from Oxfordshire who survived cancer was treated to a cooking lesson from a Michelin-starred celebrity chef.

Tia Wandless-Adamson, aged 12, took part in a festive themed virtual cook-along hosted by Jean-Christophe Novelli.

She joined a small group of young cooks impacted by cancer to launch this year’s Cancer Research UK Star Awards, which celebrate the courage of children and young people who have been diagnosed with the disease.

The French restaurateur, whose own son Valentino was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, gave them an online masterclass in making ‘Joyeux Noël’ Christmas pancakes with spiced cranberry sauce.

The chef’s tutorial came as a surprise for the girl who was invited to take part in her kitchen at home, while the chef provided guidance as she cooked up her first pancakes.

Tia was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, in March 2019 after she developed a lump on the inside of her left leg.

At first it was thought she might have fallen off the beam while practising a gymnastics routine, but after about three weeks the lump was still painful.

Her mum Karen, said: “I tried to get a GP appointment with the local doctor, but I was told it would take up to six weeks to see anyone. Despite calling a week later I got the same response."

She added they were eventually referred for an X-ray and 'just an hour later' had a call from her GP saying it was a tumour and more tests were needed.

She said Tia, who was on crutches to protect the bone from damage as the cancer could spread, was 'truly inspiring' adding: "She shaved off her hair prior to her chemotherapy and had to undergo a major operation to remove the tumour in her leg, which was most of her femur and the top half of the knee and replaced with a titanium prosthesis.

“After just over two weeks in hospital and learning to get around with her new leg, Tia amazed everyone.

"Even after six days she managed to stand on her own with the help of her physio."

She went on: “I am so proud of Tia especially when I stop and think what she has been through. Her dad died when she was four-and-a-half from an aneurysm, he was just 38 and we had to learn to cope, along with my son Ryan who was 16 at the time.”

Mr Novelli said it was his 'absolute pleasure' to meet Tia, saying: "She was so conscientious, and she worked incredibly well and fast on the cook-along.

"Tia was extremely focused - a quiet, strong girl who came across very determined."

He added: “To have something like the Star Awards to recognise the children and their courage when they go through so much – it is fantastic, and it all helps with that boost you need as a family."

To nominate a Star visit cruk.org/star awards.