A FRIZINGTON couple were so touched by a young father's battle against cancer that they have organised a fundraising event.  

A night of leg-waxing, entertainment and raffling is raising money for Ian Pinches, also of Frizington, who is battling Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma.

Michelle and William Benn, of Griffin Close, read about Ian in The Whitehaven News and decided to take action.

Despite being told he was infertile because of his treatment, 35-year-old Ian has seen his 16-week-old baby Oliver being born. He is hoping a leading consultant at the Harley Street Clinic in London will allow him to spend more time with his young family. 

"It broke my heart knowing he is battling cancer, I lost my sister five years ago to cancer and I know what he's family are going through," said 41-year-old Michelle, who wroks as a housekeeper. "He's a young man with a young family and he deserves a chance to go for the pioneering treatment at Harley Street clinic in London that he has been offered."

A £10,000 target would give Ian the chance to look at and receive pioneering treatments that are not available on the NHS. The figure is the fundraising target recommended by Harley Street, but it is possible that the treatment could end up costing even more.

"I got in touch with Ian to ask if I could hold a charity event for him to help raise money towards he's treatment, Ian was very gratful to us," said Michelle. 

"I haven't met Ian and his family yet but I've been invited down to meet them. I will be going to visit them this week.

"We are hoping to raise £1,000 and we have had a great response from local businesses offering raffle prizes. The community we live in is superb."

The event will be held at Frizington Whitestar Club on Saturday, November 21 at 7pm. Tickets cost £5 for adults & £2.50 for under 16s on the door. Entertainment will be provided by Avalon & Jimmy McClean.

For more information, email Michelle at nicholsonm806@gmail.com. To donate to Ian's fund, visit www.gofundme.com/fm2m256g