KIND-hearted Kinver people are rallying round to help a brave village schoolboy in his battle against cancer.

Benji Ashcroft, aged six, has been diagnosed with a rare form of muscular cancer and requires specialist proton treatment in America as the NHS will only fund part of the cost for his family.

Among those spearheading a campaign to help pay for the vital treatment is Jason Willets, executive head teacher at both Brindley Junior and Foley Infant School, where Benji is a pupil.

Mr Willetts been raising cash by cutting out calories for a sponsored slim as part of a huge fundraising effort which includes Kinver residents, Black Country musicians and TV personality Nick Owen.

Mr Willetts said: "Benji was only diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in November and is still attending school on and off. The NHS were prepared to pay for Benji and one of his parents to go to America for treatment, but Benji has a younger brother Brook in our reception class and the whole family of mum Tereza Dimova and dad Dave Ashcroft all wanted to go as well.

"We set up an appeal - 'Fighting Childhood Cancer in Kinver' - which is supporting Benji - but it's not just purely for Benji alone, but for other children as well because his family are really eager to leave a lasting legacy.

"As a result, the community spirit has been absolutely awesome and everyone wants to do their bit for Benji."

Already one parent Steve Beck has completed a sponsored cycle ride and raised £2,000.

A concert is set to take place this Saturday at the village community centre featuring rockers The Space Hoppers and Convicted. During the interval there will be a raffle and auction hosted by Kinver resident Mr Owen.

Staff and parents from both Foley and Brindley Heath Primary School will be taking part in the Silverstone Half Marathon during February.

Foley staff have also raised £282 after giving up alcohol, smoking and other vices during January - which will help to fund the family's journey to Oaklahoma.

A quiz night has also been arranged at the end of February and a just giving page set up.

Mr Willetts's sponsored slim is taking place during the 12 weeks from Christmas to Easter.

He said: "If I manage to reach my target of losing two stone, I'm hopeful of raising between £4,000, to £4,500.

"I've already lost 13lbs. I have a public weigh-in at assembly each week, so there's no pressure.

" Even Benji's mum Tereza is doing her bit. Although she can't send me money, she's been providing me with some healthy option food.

"They are a delightful family and we couldn't be doing this for nicer people."