THE rugby team-mates of a youngster who has had his leg amputated in his battle against bone cancer have been busy doing their bit to help out their pal.

Members of Blackbrook Royals rugby league club raised more than £500 for Harrison Ledsham by riding an exercise bike for six hours solid at the Co-op at Chain Lane.

Some sold cakes made by Cottoms and others held buckets outside. Shop worker Marie Thomas also held a raffle on the day.

Last week the Star reported how Harrison, 11, from Haydock, had astounded family and friends with his courage and bravery in his fight against the disease.

He had been expected to undergo knee replacement surgery to remove a tumour but following a scan it was decided to amputate as treatment had not been as effective as hoped.

Store manager Lee Ashton said: “We had customers chucking £20 notes into the buckets. Because he’s such a local lad people dug deeper than a national charity. I think that means a lot to people when someone lives close by.

“And all these 11 year-old lads gave up their Saturday to help their team-mate. We are still having customers coming in asking if they can give to Harrison’s fund.”

Harrison’s granddad Dave said: “What they have done is brilliant. The family is so grateful for the help and Blackbrook have been amazing with him.”

Dave said that Harrison, who underwent the operation in Birmingham more than two weeks ago is now back home and in good spirits.

“He must have been in so much pain with his leg but I’m sure he kept it to himself. What a lad!”