A teenage girl who has an incurable illness, causing blindness, partial deafness and spine problems, had a dream come true when her hero Rolf Harris rang her up to say "Good Day!"

The Australian TV star contacted Amy Stannard thanks to the Telegraph & Argus. We helped out after learning that the singer, artist and presenter of the BBC's Animal Hospital programme was Amy's idol.

Rolf told the T&A he had been very moved when hearing about Amy's condition and thought she was very brave.

Amy, 16, suffers from a genetic disorder called Alstrom Syndrome, which affects only 100 people worldwide. She is blind, partially deaf, suffers from diabetes and has curvature of the spine.

Yesterday she almost wept with joy when she was told by an excited mother and aunt that she had a surprise call from a celebrity well-wisher.

Rolf, speaking from his home in Maidenhead, Berkshire, said: "It is wonderful to be able to do something to help. I understand Amy is a real animal-lover who still puts animals first despite her own illness. She is a very brave girl."

Rolf said he was filming Animal Hospital every other Saturday in Manchester and asked Amy to check out the Rolf Harris website.

Amy has been a big fan of Rolf since she was a child and has all his records.

The T&A arranged for the star to speak to her at a charity event in Shipley to raise cash to send her to Canada for treatment.

Amy said: "I can't believe it. It's a brilliant surprise and it has made my day, my year in fact.

"I've been a big fan of his for as long as I can remember. He's much better than any popstar."

Amy said she and Rolf chatted about their pets.

Aunt Liz Simons, who helped to organise the all-day bowling marathon at Go Bowling, Shipley, said: "Rolf is fantastic. How sweet of him to take time out and get in touch with Amy. It has made her day. She was feeling very tired and his call was a real boost to her spirits."

Despite suffering from the condition, Amy, pictured centre at the event, has passed seven GCSEs and is studying for A-levels.

Mrs Simons was overwhelmed by support from local people. "We couldn't believe how many people turned up to take part in the marathon bowling," she said. "Even kids came after school.''

To help the appeal, ring (0113) 2565113.