President Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to Saoírse Ruane, the Co Galway girl who inspired the annual Late Late Toy Show appeal, who has died aged 12 following a long illness.

He said Saoírse's strength and warmth was an inspiration to all and sent his deepest condolences to her family.

Saoírse died on Tuesday.

She captured the hearts of the nation when she appeared on the 2020 Toy Show and spoke about her fight against cancer.

Keep up to date with all the latest Irish and international news and current affairs with http://www.rte.ie/news

Follow us on twitter @rtenews and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/rtenews