The singer took time out of his band's hectic UK tour to pay a special visit to adoring fans when he joined staff, patients and fundraisers.

He accepted an invitation to open the new Breast Care Unit as the condition is very close to his heart.

He set up the Marie Keating Foundation in 1998 to raise cancer awareness following the death of his mother.

The Irishman said he was impressed with the hospital's brand new facilities.

He said: "Things have come a long way in the ten years since my mum died.

"The ward where she was looked after didn't even have curtains up at the windows and there were just a few tatty old magazines scattered around the place.

"This is exactly the kind of care that people suffering from breast cancer deserve.

"I've seen first hand the great work that the Marie Keating Foundation Units do both in Ireland and in the UK educating people about cancer prevention and treatment.

"However, until we finally beat this disease it's vital that new and improved Breast Care Units – such as this one in Leeds – are available to help treat and care for people with breast cancer."

Boyzone were in Yorkshire to play at Sheffield Arena on Saturday night as part of their UK tour.

During his hour-long visit, Ronan was given a guided tour of the new unit where he spent time chatting to starstruck staff and patients.

Patient Christine Woods, from Bramley, said: "I couldn't believe it when he just came into my room. I've always been a big fan of his and it was great to get him to sign my CDs . He was such a nice down to earth person."