US-trip girl loses her fight against cancer

Five-year-old Chelsea Burke has lost her fight against can- cer, her grandmother said yesterday.

Chelsea, who was sent to the United States for treatment on a brain tumour after doctors in Britain said that they could not help her, died early yesterday at her home in Kent.

Friends had feared the worst after Chelsea arrived quietly back in Britain with her parents, Steve and Shelley, from New York where, despite treatment, the cancer had spread to her spine and doctors realised there was nothing more that they could do for her.

Her grandmother, Geraldine Burke, said on BBC Radio Kent yesterday: "It is with profound sorrow and breaking heart that Steve and Shelley have to announce that their most precious and darling daughter Chelsea died early this Sunday morning.

"We the family wish to thank you as friends for all love and prayers you have given and hope you will continue to show your love, support and care during a very sad day."