The mother of a toddler being treated for cancer at the Royal Marsden is leading the fundraising drive for a dedicated children’s unit at the hospital.

Elaine Austin, from Cheam, said she wanted to repay staff and charities for the love and support given to her two-year-old son Cameron.

Cammy, as he is known, has undergone treatment worth almost £1m since having non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosed in November.

His family have also been helped by Clic Sargent, the cancer care charity, and been allowed to stay in a “home from home”.

As a thank-you, Elaine has organised a black-tie event to raise money for the hospital’s £15m Our Plan appeal.

She said: “We decided to host an event to raise money for the new unit and for further research at the Royal Marsden and for Clic Sargent.

“We are very lucky to be so close to such a fantastic hospital.

“The Marsden is a world-leader in research and treatment for both children’s and adults’ cancers.

“We are so grateful for the treatment Cammy is receiving and would really love to support them”

The event, featuring a casino, cocktail bar, disco and hot buffet, is being held at Cheam Sports Club, Peaches Close, on Saturday, July 11.

Businesses have donated raffle prizes including overnight stays at the Nutfield Priory in Reigate and the Millennium Hotel in Mayfair.

Portsmouth and England striker Peter Crouch has also donated a signed football shirt, which will be auctioned on the night.

Anyone wanting to buy tickets or donate a raffle prize or auction item call Elaine on 07791 595 618 or the Marsden’s fundraising team on 020 8770 0279.