Thousands raised for footballer, 8, with rare cancer

Harrison plays for Eastwood Hanley Little Eagles, whose coach started a fundraising page to help the 8-year-old and his family

A grassroots football community has raised £6,000 in five days to help an 8-year-old boy with a rare cancer.

Harrison plays for Stoke-on-Trent amateur side Eastwood Hanley Little Eagles, and was recently diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, which affects the blood and bone marrow.

His football coach Damian Sasiak set up an online appeal, saying he wanted Harrison's parents to be able to focus on their family and his treatment, and not to have to think about money.

To be able to raise so much in five days was "amazing," said Mr Sasiak, and the response had "lifted everyone up."

"I am really happy that the grassroots community have stood up," he said, adding he was "very happy to be able to press the button to start this huge supporting machine to help the family."

Eastwood Hanley Little Eagles coach Damian Sasiak (right) spoke to BBC Radio Stoke's Lee Blakeman

Harrison's treatment began straight away, and could continue for up to five years.

The initial aim had been to raise about £2,500, and the fundraising will continue, as "we know it isn't a sprint, it is a marathon," said Mr Sasiak.

With the family facing a "life-changing situation," they will need longer term support, but are secure financially for the next few months, he said.

The reaction to the GoFundMe appeal for Harrison had helped everyone think positively, he added.

"We know Harrison is a little fighter, a little warrior, and he can win this game."