A FUNDRAISING group set up in honour of a toddler who has battled a rare form of cancer will soon be applying for charitable status.

Three-year-old Ruddi Waterworth-Jones is in remission from rhabdomyo-sarcoma, a cancer of the soft tissue, which he was diagnosed with at just six-months-old.

A series of fundraisers have already taken place and dozens more are in the pipeline for Ruddi’s Retreat – a charity inspired by the youngster to allow families with sick children or those who have lost a child to have a holiday.

Ruddi’s mum Ali Jones said: “We just want to raise as much money as possible.

“The next step is to get the charity registered. We have £4,000 in the bank and when we reach £5,000 we are going to apply to the Charity Commission.

“Once we are registered it will hopefully remove red tape and allow bigger businesses to give their support.”

After a year of vigorous treatment – including three months in hospital in America – Ruddi has now been in remission for 18 months.

Speaking of Ruddi’s treatment, Ali said: “Ruddi’s was quite a nasty cancer and although the tumour has been removed and he is in remission he has six monthly MRI scans to check it hasn’t come back.

“We still have another three years before he is given the all-clear.”

The next big event to raise funds for Ruddi’s Retreat will be held at the Pennine Manor Hotel in Birchencliffe on October 28.

The Hallowe’en-themed ball will feature entertainment from soul vocalist Ritchie Penrose and a charity sporting auction which will include Manchester United memorabilia.

Mum Ali, 40, from Longwood, added: “We had initially thought a static caravan would cost £30,000 but we have already been offered a substantial discount at one site which is ace.

“I’m looking at either Primrose Valley or Flamingo Land near Malton in North Yorkshire.

“Being able to go away made an amazing difference to me and I want to make that difference for other people.”

Meanwhile Ruddi’s dad, 30-year-old Craig Waterworth, has organised a football competition at Emley Football ground to keep funds pouring in.

The event will be held on November 20 and will feature ex-professional players versus West Riding Premier League players.

To help, email ruddisretreat@yahoo.co.uk or call 07587 080904.