Lennon's Lucy Struck By Illness

Julian Lennon's childhood pal Lucy O'Donnell, 46, from Surrey, England was the inspiration for the legendary song, which appeared on the band's 1967 album Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Earlier this year (09) Lennon was devastated to learn his former friend had been struck down with auto-immune disease lupus - and immediately offered his support.

He says, "I've been able to help out a bit. I was so upset to hear what happened."

Lennon admits Lucy first came to his father's attention when they were at nursery school together, and he brought home a painting of his friend with diamond shapes over her eyes.

And his childhood pal, now Lucy Vodden, is delighted to have revived the friendship.

She says, "It was lovely of Julian (to get in touch)."