SCHOOLFRIENDS, family and neighbours of a nine-year-old boy who died from a rare form of cancer have raised £5,000 in his name.

Little Saul Chapman attended St Veronica’s RC Primary School in Helmshore, and pupils, staff and mums came together to raise funds for Derian House Children’s Hospice.

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Saul was diagnosed with aggressive cancer called desmoplastic, which is a small-round-cell tumour in October 2013, and lost his battle with the disease in September last year.

At the time of his death his dad, Toby, described Saul as a ‘very active and happy chap’.

He added that Saul showed an unwavering commitment to getting better every single day and only spent one day of his illness in bed. Since his passing a number of events have been organised to keep his memory alive and raise funds for Derian House, who have supported Toby and mum Deborah.

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Pupils at St Veronica’s organised a host of activities including cake sales, raising £2,000 in the process, while the school’s governors laid on a charity supper and auction at Rossendale Golf Club, which raised £1,500 on the night.

Meanwhile a group of mums from St Veronica’s raised more than £2,000.

The group’s fundraising efforts included running the Wilmslow Half-Marathon in March, and organising a ladies evening at Pearson’s Cafe in Helmshore.

A JustGiving group was set up called “Heart and soul for Saul.”

Jeanette Critchley, one of the organisers said “The ladies were overwhelmed by the generosity and good will of Helmshore residents and businesses, who show us how much Saul touched our lives.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed money, good wishes and time and effort to support other families at Derian House.”

John Rullo, fundraiser at Derian House said “We’re very touched by how much the work the school and the ladies have put in to raise funds for Derian.

“Saul also came to rest here at Derian House after he passed away at home, and we’re so pleased to be able to help keep his memory alive.”