Exel Graphic Services managing director Brenda Jones is asking the printing community to rally around and help raise money for her nephews son who is seriously ill.

Harry Jones, who is seven this month, is fighting an extremely rare brain tumour and his family is hoping to raise enough to send him for specialist treatment in the US after UK surgeons said they could not operate.

Brenda said: Harrys illness came out of the blue a week after a family barbecue for his christening. Weve learned that theres not too much hope in this country and that his best chance lies with pioneering treatment in the US, Australia or Canada.

Harry is currently enjoying himself at Disneyworld in Florida with parents Dave and Tina, courtesy of Virgin boss Richard Branson.

He really is a super lad a saucy little sod. But hes put on a lot of weight due to the treatment, she added.

Brenda said that the Jones dog Leon (pictured) had been a great source of comfort to Harry and the pair were inseparable.

Its funny but Leon can just sense it. Ever since we learned that Harry wasnt well hes been sitting next to him, said Brenda.

Friends, neighbours, Harrys school in Monks Orchard near Croydon and staff at Exel have all rallied to Harrys cause.

One of the worst bits was when Harry had to have his head shaved. But friends raised money by shaving their heads in a pub. When things like this happen you see the best side of human nature, said Brenda.

* To donate to the Harry Jones Appeal Fund contact Exel Graphic Services on 01322 550055, or Dave and Tina Jones on 020 8654 6175.

Story by John Davies