ALMOST £2,000 has been raised in memory of Gareth Brown who tragically died last week after bravely battling cancer.

The 28-year-old Barrow man died on June 27 from a rare form of adrenal gland cancer called pheochromocytoma after being diagnosed just last year.

Despite an initially positive prognosis, in which doctors said he could live into his 50s, in May this year tests revealed the cancer had spread and he was given the news that he had just weeks to live.

His parents, who live in Gloucester Street, have launched a fundraising appeal in his name to raise money for the oncology unit at Furness General Hospital, where he was treated.

In the first two days since the appeal was launched on Wednesday, it has already smashed its initial £500 target and now stands at £1,855.

Mr Brown's sister, Steph Dewey, said the family was "overwhelmed" by the response.

"We never thought we would get this much," she said.

"We want to raise awareness and as much money as possible in Gareth's memory. It's unbelievable how much has been raised so far, we're so overwhelmed.

"We can't believe it and it just goes to show what an amazing, inspirational person he was. We are very proud and know he would be to have raised so much for somewhere that became very close to his heart."

Mr Brown, a Sellafield worker and former Parkview pupil, was well-known through his love of football and playing for Furness Cavaliers.

His nieces Layla and Alexa, stepson Kai and nephew Corey called him their "hero".

"Wow, lots of people love Uncle Gareth," seven-year-old Layla said, after hearing how much had been raised so far.

Corey, 14, added: "That's amazing, I am so pleased we've been able to make money for a cause that would make Uncle Gareth so proud."

If you would like to donate to the Brown family's fundraising efforts in memory of Gareth, you can do so HERE .

His funeral is due to take place today at St George’s Church at 2pm, followed by cremation at Thorncliffe Crematorium and a gathering at the Lisdoonie Hotel, to which everyone is invited.

Any donations on the day will be added to the fundraising to go to the oncology unit at FGH.