Galway girl Saoírse Ruane, a star of the Late Late Toy Show, has sadly passed away.

The 12-year-old had the nation in tears but also inspired them when she appeared on the 2020 Toy Show and spoke about her experience with cancer.

Saoírse had to have her right leg amputated after being diagnosed with a rare form of the disease at the age of seven.

Saoírse passed away on Tuesday.

Saoírse’s campaign helped to raise millions for research into the disease and most recently, a charity single ‘Sing for Saoírse’ raised over €60,000 for a Galway foundation supporting sick children.

In a post on Instagram, her family said their “beautiful little Saoírse” died after a “long courageous and dignified battle”.

They thanked their “lovely followers for holding Saoírse and us in your thoughts these past few weeks.

“We think of you all today also as we know how much Saoírse was loved by the nation and the effect she had on so many people’s lives.

“Cancer you stole her from us, the life we had and our dreams. Life will never be the same!”

Saoirse Ruane, RIP