Ribchester Rovers hosting charity match for Rio Spurr

Rio, the son of former Blackburn Rovers defender Tommy Spurr, has been suffering from a rare form of cancer.

The family announced in April that Rio’s latest scans had shown no signs of the disease, but they are continuing to raise money for potentially life-saving treatment due to his high chance of relapse.

This latest fundraising effort will see Ribchester Rovers FC host a match between themselves and a star-studded line-up of Tommy’s former teammates.

Those playing include former Rovers player and coach David Dunn, ex-Preston North End and Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford, and former Burnley midfielder Dale Stephens, while they will be managed by ex Scotland international Craig Conway, who appeared 200 times for the Ewood club.

Rio's family announced earlier this year his scans showed no sign of cancer, but his chance of remission is high (Image: Archive)

As well as the match, there will be two bars, food stalls, inflatables and rides, face painting, games, a magician and a raffle.

There will also be a chance for people to have their photos taken with the ex professionals.

Rio’s mum, Chloe Spurr, said: “We’ve got a massive line-up of ex-pros from Preston, Blackburn, Burnley. There’s something for everyone.

“We put the event on last year and there was around 1,500 people. We raised about £20,000 on the day and it was incredible so we’re hoping it’s going to be just as good this year.

“Rio is currently thriving. He’s doing remarkably well. His latest scans were clear which was amazing news.

"He started school this week which is a milestone we just never imagined we would see.

“However his initial diagnosis does carry a high chance of relapse, there’s a one in two chance of the cancer coming back.

"If it does, his chance of survival will plummet to around 10 per cent and we won’t have any options left for treatment in this country on the NHS and that’s precisely why we’re continuing to fundraise.

Rio is the son of former Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End defender Tommy Spurr (Image: Archive)

“Treatments and clinical trials that we might be looking at in that worst case scenario can cost up to £1 million, so for as long as there’s a chance Rio’s cancer could come back, we’ll continue to fundraise.

“We are super excited about Sunday. There is a massive feeling of excitement in the local community for it because so many people experienced what a great day it was last year.

“We will continue to do everything in our power to prepare for the unthinkable and give Rio every possible chance of long-term survival.

"We continue to be completely blown away by the love and support we receive from friends, family, the local community, and businesses. We are beyond grateful.”

The event will take place on Sunday, September 10, starting at 12pm and with the match kicking off at 2.00pm on Ribchester Rec.