Callum gets the V sign for Victory

12:06pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

A SUMMER fundraising event will help send young Callum Kaye to America for life-saving treatment.

The six-year-old from Penhill has a brain tumour, and the aim of his supporters is to send him to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Centre in New York for pioneering surgery - if enough money can be raised.

The latest fun day to be announced, organised by private car firm V-Cars, will see Irish dancing, live music, bouncy castles, children's games and side stalls.

It is hoped that the event, to be held on Saturday, August 30 at the Premier Club in Ermin Street, Stratton, will generate between £5,000 and £7,000 for the appeal.

Fun and games during the fun day will run from 10am to 4pm.

"I'm so grateful to everyone for showing so much support for Callum," said his mum, Anna Eagle.

"This should be a fantastic day. Callum loves bouncy castles and will be going along.

"I continue to be amazed by everyone who has come together and raised money.

"It really has touched my heart as I never expected it to be like this.

"We have got more than £100,000 so far and need to get up to £175,000 for his treatment.

"Callum is doing well. He likes going to school twice a week and is eating and drinking on his own."

The £175,000 would cover the deposit for the treatment.

After that more funding would be needed to help the family through the three weeks needed to complete the treatment. This could be as much as another £300,000.

It is expected local sporting stars will attend the fundraiser, which is to be opened by the mayor, Steve Wakefield.

An evening auction and raffle will see a Swindon Town football and signed shirt up for grabs, as will a weekend in Berlin.

Darren Gee, V-Cars' travel coordinator, said: "It should be a great day.

"When you hear of Callum's story it really does pull on the heart-strings. We wanted to do something to help."

Trigger Happy TV star Dom Joly has just donated £100 to the cause.

The venue will host a fundraising car boot sale at the same time, with 50 pitches available. To hire a place is £5 or £7.50 for a van.

The evening corporate event will start at 7.30pm and include a buffet, live band and disco. Tickets are priced £10.

For more information visit the website or call 01793 701777.

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