BIG-HEARTED Pioneer readers have rallied to help six-year-old Sam Fynn, the Great Sutton boy suffering from a rare and inoperable brain tumour.

Following last week's front-page story describing how his dearest wish was to take a holiday with his family and dog, we were deluged with pledges of support.

Among those keen to help was Vauxhall Motors FC, which donated more than £400 from the raffle held during the game against Tranmere Rovers.

A band showcase at Flatt Lane Labour Club raised £350 thanks to the artists waiving their appearance fee and the punters digging deep.

Sam will now be able to enjoy a week at Center Parcs in Nottingham with his family and dog Todd.

His illness was only discovered less than three months ago when he told mum Caroline he was seeing two of everything.

Caroline said: 'I thought it was because he was squinting, but he mentioned it a few weeks later and Sam was referred to an eye clinic. But as soon as we left, one of his eyes turned in and he was taken to the Countess of Chester Hospital.'

Sam was revealed to have cancer, and even more tragic news was given to the family when doctors at Alder Hey said they were unable to operate.

The youngster has since completed a course of radiotherapy in a bid to shrink the tumour and slow its progress.

His family - and Pioneer readers - are concentrating on making the next few weeks as happy as possible for Sam.

Cheques, restaurant vouchers and tickets for family days out are among the kind donations flooding in.

Hayley Parsonage, marketing assistant at the Ellesmere Port Boat Museum, said: 'I was deeply saddened by Sam's story. On behalf of the museum, I would like to donate some family tickets to Sam and his family.

'I hope that this will go some way to helping the family.'

Sixties musician Tommy Hughes is organising a charity night at Whitby Sports and Social Club tomorrow (Thursday) at 7.30pm. Admission is free and those performing include Teddy 'King Size' Taylor and the Mojos.

The financial target for the appeal has been reached. Any extra cash raised will be donated to a cancer research charity.