It’s a modern version of the Little & Large show.

But the TV comics of the 1970s have been replaced by a Huddersfield sporting superstar and a brave Linthwaite youngster.

Giants star Eorl Crabtree has accepted an invite to be the first patron of Ruddi’s Retreat, a charity set up by the mum of young Ruddi Waterworth-Jones.

And he was at the charity’s cafe in Manchester Road to meet the young man himself. It was a big contrast, with forward Eorl topping 6feet 5ins and Ruddi coming in at 3 feet tall.

Ruddi was just over six months old when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer on his bladder and prostate. He went through months of treatment and lost his bladder and prostate in the process.

He took his first steps on a respite holiday at Primrose Valley after enduring chemotherapy which left him with weak bones.

That inspired his mother Ali Jones to set up the charity which has since bought two large caravans at the Primrose Valley holiday site, near Filey, on Yorkshire’s east coast to help families of sick children.

Now the cafe and bistro are a good fundraiser for the charity, having been opened a few months ago.

Ali said: “We’re delighted Eorl has agreed to be our patron.

“He’s such a well-known figure in and around Huddersfield and seems very keen to help.

“I approached him via Facebook, explaining about the charity, and was stunned when he agreed to help.

“It really will make a Giant difference to us. Eorl, who was great with Ruddi when the pair met up, will promote us whenever he can and will give us a massive opportunity to do more fundraising. He’s a great guy”.

Eorl, who will line up for the Giants against Widnes Vikings at the John Smith’s Stadium on Sunday, said: “I’m delighted to be able to help.

“It is a great cause and Ruddi is such a great kid. The charity is a small one but it is doing a great job and it’s here in my home town. I feel I can help them make a big difference.

“I did the opening of the cafe and it’s great to see how well it’s doing.

“Most players at the Giants want to get involved with community projects to give something back, but then the whole Rugby League community is like that”.