A couple whose nine-year-old son survived a brain tumour are to stage a fund-raising day to help others suffering the same condition.

Nigel and Nettie Boutwood, who live in Chiddingly, near Eastbourne, have already raised almost £250,000 for research into brain tumours.

They are planning to add to that through a day of sponsored walks and bike and horse rides at Firle Place, near Lewes, on September 21 from 9.30am to 1.10pm.

Money raised will go towards Charlie's Challenge and the Mid Surrey Farmers Drag Hounds.

Charlie was just 20 months old when his parents were told that he had a cancerous brain tumour.

His treatment lasted a year and a half, during which time he underwent major surgery and chemotherapy.

This was followed by six weeks of radiotherapy, for which he needed a general anaesthetic every day.

But despite this, the youngster is now living life to the full.

As a testament to his courage and as inspiration to other sufferers, his parents set up the Charlie's Challenge appeal in 1993.

Mr Boutwood, who runs an advertising agency in Eastbourne, said: "He's an amazing boy. He's proof that it's possible to survive. His tests have been clear for eight years, which is a good sign.

"I've met many children with brain tumours and seeing the suffering and tragedy makes me want to do anything I can."

Mr Boutwood says brain tumours are the second most common cause of childhood cancer, accounting for 25 per cent of cases, while leukaemia accounts for 30 per cent.

He said: "Although treatment has got much better, there is still a long way to go."

Charlie's Challenge is giving £120,000 to help fund a project at the institute for neurology at University College London.

Together with the Samantha Dickson Trust, it has also pledged £140,000 for research into medulloblastoma tumours - the tumour that Charlie had - at Newcastle University.

To find out more, email boutwood@pavilion.co.uk