Young heart transplant girl on meeting 1D on Surprise Surprise

A heart transplant recipient has spoken about meeting her idols in One Direction on TV show Surprise Surprise.

Eleven year old Rachel Hooley was left shocked after rubbing shoulders with the group on the ITV show, which was broadcast on December 26.

She appeared on the programme because she underwent a heart transplant in 2012 after being diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, which is a form of heart failure.

Hooley told the Chronicle: "It was really amazing and fun - they are my favourite band and Niall is my favourite member.

"I actually could not believe it when they walked in, I was so shocked I could not say a word. The boys were all really nice and all gave me a kiss and a cuddle.

"Then Niall invited me to come and see One Direction at the Metrocentre - he confused it with the Metro Radio Arena and I thought that was funny.

"It’s been a dream come true. When I am poorly I can look back at the best time I had. I just wish I had asked Niall to follow us on Twitter, but I felt too shy.”

The girl's sister Kate also met One Direction on the show.

Watch 1D in action below: