Spencer, aged three, loses cancer battle

Spencer Roberts, of Neville Road, Peacehaven, died on January 4 after fighting a rare tumour for over a year.

On December 11, 2006, Spencer's parents, Paul and Amanda Roberts, took him to his GP after he complained of a stomach ache.

Within 24 hours he had been referred to the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital in Brighton and then to the Royal Marsden in London.

He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a solid cancerous tumour that develops around the adrenal glands.

Mrs Roberts said: 'Spencer was a real character and the staff at Marsden adored him, as he was usually chasing around the ward on a little bike and causing havoc!'

As well as Paul and Amanda, Spencer leaves his big sister Amalia.

Mrs Roberts said: 'Amalia has been absolutely brilliant throughout his treatment, even though we know her heart is breaking when we are not together as a family. She has never once complained.'

The couple are now fundraising in Spencer's name to help other sufferers.

They have set up a web page to raise money for Polegate-based charity, Children with Cancer Fund, and Mr Roberts plans to run the London Marathon in April.

On his charity page, Mr Roberts said: 'It was hoped that Spencer my son would cross the finish line with me, however with cancer nothing goes to plan.

'I am running for a local cancer charity who use the money raised where it is most needed, that is the families and fighters of childhood cancer, be it a paid day out, food in the cupboards or gifts that make life that little bit more tolerable.

'So please dig deep, lets raise loads for the poor souls.

'Spencer, me and you run on.'

To sponsor Paul visit http://www.justgiving.com/spencer1.

Spencer's funeral will be held at St Margaret's Church, The Green, Rottingdean, tomorrow (Saturday) at 10.15am.

The family have asked for donations to the Children with Cancer Fund, visit www.childrenwithcancerfund.co.uk for more details.