NOT even Saints' 2-1 defeat could take the shine off a sick Hampshire girl's big day as she was given the VIP treatment by her footballing heroes.

There was no bigger smile in the entire stadium as Sophie Barringer strode out on to the turf at St Mary's as mascot for Southampton's Premiership clash with Newcastle United.

Clutching her hero James Beattie's hand, six-year-old Sophie led out the rest of the Saints team while her family watched with pride.

Earlier the day had begun in VIP style for Sophie whose inspirational battle with cancer has touched the hearts of people across Hampshire.

She was picked up from her Eastleigh home by a chauffeur-driven limousine laid on by neighbour Dave Sharpe, and delivered to the stadium in style.

At St Mary's Sophie was kitted out in her mascot strip.

Then she met players from both teams and had photos taken with star players including James Beattie and former Saints and England star Alan Shearer.

It was then time for her big moment and she wasted no time taking to the pitch.

"I think she wanted to stay out there longer. She would have stayed out there to play if she could," said Lin.