Friends and family of a little girl who was diagnosed with cancer have raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Lilly Rae Beagle, four, was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer, Wilms tumour, in spring this year.

Family friends Alexandra Hills and her mum Geraldine Hills decided to host a fundraiser to show their support.

Geraldine Hills said: “When Alexandra and I heard how much support Lilly and her family were receiving from CLIC Sargent we knew it had to be our chosen charity for the fundraiser

“Before Lilly’s diagnosis, I knew nothing about CLIC Sargent and the amazing work they do and the more people and businesses Alexandra and I spoke to it became apparent that the general community was sadly mostly unaware of their existence as well.”

CLIC Sargent is a UK leading charity for young cancer patients and its team at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton was presented with a cheque of £8,540 following the fundraiser.

The event was attended by almost 1,000 people and was held on September 30 at Spelthorne Football Club.

Lilly’s mum, Jade Pettengell, said: “I cannot believe how much of a success the fundraiser was. I'm so touched by all the love and support shown. The generosity from not only friends and families but local businesses was amazing and we are so grateful.

“Alex and Geraldine dedicated so much time and effort into the day which clearly shows in the amount raised. From going from worrying about no one turning up to running out of raffle tickets this day was an all round success and we hope the money helps families like us.”

Catriona Batchelor, CLIC Sargent’s fundraising engagement manager for Surrey, said: “We are so grateful to Jade, Alexandra and Geraldine for everything they have done for CLIC Sargent.

“It’s tough seeing your child go through cancer. It devastates families emotionally. But we’re here. When cancer strikes young lives, CLIC Sargent helps the whole family cope with the hidden costs of cancer through practical, emotional and financial support.”

Alexandra Hill added: "I'm still completely overwhelmed by the whole thing. I couldn't believe how quickly the word spread and how it went from a little fundraiser to his huge event.

"I still don't think the amount raised has sunk in yet but I'm incredibly proud of our achievements!”