A fishing match and barbecue organised by a group of friends has raised more than £1,500 for a seriously ill youngster.

Eastern Daily Press: Five-year-old Benny Pitcher (left), who has a rare form of childhood brain cancer, with his parents Kevin and Julie, his siblings Ruby, Rosie and Brannigan, and family friends Michael and Claire Gill, who raised more than £1,500 by hosting a fishing match and barbecue.. Picture: KAREN BETHELLFive-year-old Benny Pitcher (left), who has a rare form of childhood brain cancer, with his parents Kevin and Julie, his siblings Ruby, Rosie and Brannigan, and family friends Michael and Claire Gill, who raised more than £1,500 by hosting a fishing match and barbecue.. Picture: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

The event, which was held on Weybourne beach, was the idea of Sheringham couple Michael and Claire Gill, who wanted to support five-year-old Benny Pitcher, who has a rare form of brain cancer.

An online fundraising appeal to send Benny on holiday with his parents Kevin and Julie and his three siblings, and to pay for equipment the youngster will need as his illness progresses, has already topped the £9,000-mark, with more events in the pipeline including a football match and fun day at Sheringham Football Club on July 21.

Eastern Daily Press: Fishing match contestant on Weybourne beachPicture: SUBMITTEDFishing match contestant on Weybourne beachPicture: SUBMITTED (Image: Archant)

Thanking all those who supported the match and barbecue, Mrs Gill, who is planning another event for September, said: "We were absolutely delighted with the total, people have so much love and support to give for such an amazing little boy and we would happily do it all over again."

To support Benny, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bennytoeurodisney