GARETH Brown was just 28 when he died from a rare form of adrenal gland cancer called pheochromocytoma, after being diagnosed just year.

Despite an initially positive prognosis, in May this year tests revealed the cancer had spread and he was given the news that he had just weeks to live.

He died at his parents' home in Gloucester Street on June 27 with dad Steve by his side and holding his hand.

Hundreds attended a packed-out St George's Church in Barrow for his funeral which was characterised by tales of mischief from his schooldays and banter with his football teammates on nights out.

The Sellafield worker and former Parkview School pupil, described by friends as the "life and soul of the party", was well known for his love of sport and his time playing at Furness Cavaliers.

Since his death, his girlfriend and stepson, his parents, sisters, nieces and nephew have led a campaign to raise as much money as possible in his name for the oncology unit at Furness General Hospital.

Backed by friends and extended family, their fundraising has already generated more than £7,000.

On November 5, his nieces Layla and Alexa Dewey will tackle a triathalon with friends seven-year-old Phoebe Case, five-year-old Amelia Case and 11-year-old Esmee Gilchrist at Ulverston Leisure Centre.

The three oldest girls will complete a 1,200m bike ride, an 800m run and a 150m swim while the two youngest will do 600m on a bike followed by 400m running and 50m swimming.

Layla said: "We're doing this in memory of Uncle Gareth, our hero, to raise money for Barrow oncology unit because they helped Uncle Gareth have a bit longer with us."

Her sister Alexa added: "I'm doing it to make Uncle Gareth proud."