FRIENDS and supporters of a young rugby player, and “fine young man”who is battling an aggressive brain tumour are rallying to raise cash for his treatment.

Alex Field, of Collier Row, is a normal seven-year-old boy who loves sport, especially rugby, but has been struck down by a malignant tumour.

His family, mother Rachel Rodd, and stepfather, David Gilmore have discovered that treatment in the US is 10 years ahead of the UK, but could cost the family �300,000.

They and his team, Romford and Gidea Park Rugby Club, are planning a series of fundraising events which look set to involve former England international Jason Leonard.

David, 28, of Victory Way, Collier Row, said: “He’s a normal seven-year-old who loves to kick a ball about and play the Xbox but he was diagnosed with a brain tumour in July and he’s a bit low at the moment.”

The tumour was spotted after an MRI scan and within 24 hours, Alex, who goes to Crownfield Junior School in Collier Row, was waiting to have the operation which has removed 70 per cent of it.

David said: “It’s been emotional for everybody, I mean there’s obviously been good days and there’s bad days, but he’s had loads of cards and letters from his friends. The support has been really good, it just shows you that when the world is in a downturn, people still come together.”

“We’ve managed to have a family break away together to Centre Parcs funded by a charity called Wipe Away the Tears, which was great for us to be able to spend a bit of quality time together, and for him to have a break from the treatment and get out on his bike and enjoy himself.”

Rugby club president Dai Davies said they planning a host of activities to help pay for the trip to California, should the opportunity arise. Any unused funds will be used for other people to have tumour and cancer treatment.

He said: “He is a determined young lad, energetic and into all sorts of sports. He’s a popular member of the club and his parents are very well known to the club, so it stems from that really.

“We’re hoping to do a couple of charity matches and we’ve hopefully got Jason Leonard involved. He has said he will lend his support in any way he can.”

To find out more visit the website www.alexfieldfund.org or telephone David on 07795 067113.