A FOOTBALL fundraiser is being held this weekend for a young starlet struck down with leukaemia.

Liam Wynne, 12, from Cranberry Lane, Alsager, is coming to terms with his illness just as his football talents were starting to draw attention.

The youngster had been made captain of Nantwich Town Under 12s by team manager Andy Oakes. A week later, just before Christmas, doctors were delivering the distressing diagnosis.

Andy said: 'Liam is a wonderful boy and it has hit the whole club very hard.But we had a meeting and decided to do everything we could to get him on his dream holiday to Florida.'

The football marathon is being held at Nantwich Town's Jackson Avenue ground on Saturday and Sunday from 9am-9pm on both days with 21 games held in succession. Teams ranging from the Under 8s and girls to adults will play.

Sandbach United U12s, who Liam used to play for when it was Sandbach Albion, have been invited to play two games against Nantwich Town U12s.

Kick-off for the first U12s game is at 2pm, and the second is at 3.15pm on Saturday. Mr Oakes said: 'Each player has got a sponsorship form, and with up to 500 players taking part we are hoping to make a lot of money.'

Liam's dad, Chris, 35, says his son can't wait for the big day. He added: 'Liam is so looking forward to seeing all his old friends. It will be a great day and I would like to thank everyone.'

To help grant Liam's wish for a holiday to Florida we need to raise £8,000.

Cheques can be made out to Liam Wynne and sent to the Chronicle office at 32-34 Victoria Street, Crewe CW1 2JE.

Alternatively, funds can be paid directly into the Liam Wynne fund at Lloyds TSB, account number 77480715258914, sort code 7748 (TSB, Hightown, Sandbach).

If you would like to arrange an event for Liam call Julia Thorley at the Chronicle on 01270 502434.