YOUNG rugby league players are rallying round in support of a teammate who has inoperable cancer.

Keighley Albion colleagues are staging a special fundraising tournament this weekend for 17-year-old Callum Mynott.

And club bosses are urging the public to turn out in strength to back the event, which takes place at the team's Keighley Road, Crossflatts, base from 2pm on Saturday.

Rugby-mad Callum, known to his teammates as CJ, successfully battled cancer about seven years ago.

He underwent specialist treatment, not available in the UK, in Switzerland after a massive fundraising campaign.

But he became unwell again just a few weeks ago and it was discovered the cancer, in his brain stem, had returned.

The college student, who lives in Keighley, is now undergoing treatment at Leeds General Infirmary.

"He bravely fought the cancer before but has been diagnosed with two tumours which are inoperable – everybody at the club is devastated," said Callum's U17s team coach, Darren Murphy.

"CJ is a fanatical rugby player and supporter and a wonderful young man. He is extremely popular with everyone.

"He has grown-up with his teammates over the years and they were really keen to do something for him.

"The rugby community is very good and comes together in these situations.

"CJ's teammates will be playing against various other teams but we want people to come along and give their support.

"We hope to record the games so that CJ can watch them in hospital.

"There will be all kinds of things going on during the afternoon and through the evening and all the proceeds will go to help with CJ's care and support the family."

Attractions at the event will include raffles and an auction.

There will be food, a DJ and bar and people will be able to watch the England versus Australia Rugby World Cup match.

"It has all been arranged quite quickly but other rugby teams have been fantastic in their support," said Mr Murphy.

"Now we just need people to come along and give their backing.

"There is no admission fee as such but we are asking for donations on the day.

"People are also invited to bring along goods which could be raffled or auctioned.

"We are keen to raise as much as possible."

More details can be found on the Keighley Albion Facebook page.