The family of Egremont's Danica Maxwell has marked what would have been her 21st birthday.

After bravely battling three brain tumours, the teenager died in 2010 aged 15.

Danica's Dream Fund charity – which she developed while ill and is now run by her family – currently stands at £140,000 with money continuing to be collected to help provide practical expenses or pampering gifts for seriously-ill children and young people.

Her dad, John, said: "She would have celebrated her birthday last weekend. We decided to mark the occasion by going to Southport. It was hard but we didn't want to be in Egremont.''

John said: "When we see the amount that's been raised, the letters and messages from people, including strangers, who want to do something, it shows us that Danica was a very special lady.''

A race night in aid of the charity is being held on Saturday, October 8 at the Egremont Rugby League Club. Also being held is a charity fight with Rikki Dillon in November.

John also wished to thank those who continue to raise funds.

These include Craig Wright (£2279); Dan Shutt (£150); Greggs (£200); Sellafield Fuel Pipe Storage (£250); a charity football match fun day (£2250); Orgill School fun day (£200) Leigha Christopherson (£200) and Jason K Jackson (£763).

He also thanked Peter Maxwell, Danica's cousin, who donates weekly to the charity.

Anyone wanting to help or donate can do so via www.everyclick.com/Danicasdreamfund email jmaxwell123@btinternet.com or text nica00 followed by £? To 70070