A FUNDRAISING campaign is underway in support of a Keighley teenager battling a rare form of bone cancer.

Adam Zafar, 19, is currently undergoing an eight-week course of specialist treatment at a clinic in Germany.

Whilst the cost of the treatment is covered, his living expenses – and those of his mum Sue, who is accompanying him – are not.

Family members and friends are staging events to coin-in cash, and a special online fundraising page has been set-up.

Adam was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, an aggressive cancer which mainly affects children and young people, in May.

"He had been suffering with back pain and had trouble sleeping – but thought nothing of it," said Scott Bellamy, one of Adam's five brothers.

"He then developed a lump in his back and sought medical advice.

"After further investigation a tumour was found growing on his pelvic bone, and he learned of his condition.

"It was devastating news and his life as he knew it changed forever."

Adam – who before falling ill worked for Scott's engineering business – began a course of chemotherapy in the young adults' unit at St James' Hospital, Leeds.

He was then due to be flown out to Jacksonville in the USA for further chemo, and proton therapy not currently available in this country.

But he was too ill to make the journey, and instead was given a place at the Essen University Hospital in Germany.

If enough funds can be raised, other family members hope to join him for Christmas.

Once the treatment is complete, Adam – a former pupil of Oakworth Primary School and Beckfoot Oakbank, and an ex-Oakworth Juniors footballer – will then return to the UK and undergo surgery to remove the pelvic bone where the tumour developed.

"Should he successfully complete the treatment and if the operation goes well he is estimated to have a 60 per cent chance of survival," said Scott.

"The potential success of any treatment goes hand in hand with a fighting spirit and positive attitude, and people's generous donations will allow the best support possible for Adam whilst he fights this terrible disease and give him the maximum chance to fulfil a long and happy life.

"Adam can no longer work and mum has had to leave work to care for him and also for her father who, in a double blow, has bowel cancer."

So far, more than £10,000 towards the £15,000 target has been pledged via the online page, gofundme.com/adam-amp-sues-fund.

Yesterday, a money-raising football match – organised by another of Adam's brothers, Josh – was held between the Keighley-based Leeds United Supporters Club and its Manchester United counterpart. The game was won 5-4 by the Man Utd team.

And forthcoming events include a fundraising night at the Royal Oak, Damside, Keighley, on Saturday, December 1.

Attractions will include live acoustic music, a comedian, stand-up bingo and an auction.

The event will start at 7pm.

Admission is by ticket only, available – priced £5 – from the Royal Oak.

Further details can be obtained by phoning 07850 480639.