The parents of a young cancer victim who died last week have urged organisers of a major fundraising event in the city to go ahead with their plans.

Eight-year-old Robyn Brooks finally lost her fight for life in New York.

News of Robyn's death after a five-year battle against a rare and aggressive form of cancer called neuroblastoma shocked fundraisers across the district who have helped bring in £40,000 in two years to help the youngster get pioneering treatment in the United States.

Among the many left saddened were businessman Wayne Lyons who runs a business discount club which encourages local firms to support and use each other.

Plans to throw a business-backed spring ball in May at Bradford's Hanover Hotel in aid of Robyn's treatment were well under way when news came though of her death.

Mr Lyons said he had thought about cancelling the event but had got a message from Robyn's parents, Garry and Karen, that they wanted it to go ahead in her memory.

He said: "My first instinct was to call it off but then I heard from her parents that they wanted it to go on and raise funds in her memory. The fund will then stay open to help other children who suffered like she did."

Stars from the Bradford Bulls and Bradford City and celebrities from Emmerdale have already promised to make an appearance at the event on May 8.

Brave Robyn first made headlines in the Telegraph & Argus two years ago after leaving a heart-rending message on Gareth Gate's website.

Moved by her plight, the Gates family arranged a fundraising night which sparked a fundraising campaign across Bradford.

The youngster, from Rochdale, left Britain 22 months ago to get treatment in America where she underwent a combination of radiation therapy and thalidomide treatment.

Sadly, her condition deteriorated. Her body will be flown home this week.

Tickets for the Spring Ball are on sale now for £35, available on (07790) 906222.

Anyone who wants to give directly to Robyn's Appeal can either telephone (01706) 643965 or send a cheque c/o Karen Brooks, PO Box 266, Rochdale OL12 0XB