An 11-year-old 'hero' who has been in hospital since the end of October with a rare form of cancer has now returned home.

Harley Anderson, of Barrow, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia after being transferred to Royal Manchester Children's Hospital for an operation following a trip to A&E at Furness General Hospital.

Mum Kayleigh Whiteside said: "We can now give him is medication and chemotherapy from home, with his weekly check-ups in Manchester once a week for the foreseeable.

"We also know that during his time at home, because of his lack of immune system, there will be a fair few 48-hour overnighters in Lancaster or Manchester.

"So, it’s a long road ahead, but hopefully we are prepared for it."

A fundraiser was started by Harley's coaches at Walney Central rugby league club – Grahame Dale, Jonny Corkill and Mike Conaghan – to help the family with their constant travel to and from Manchester, with stepdad Dan taking time from work to look after Harley's big brother Cameron and little sister Georgia.

The campaign has seen a surge in popularity thanks to the Barrow community and smashed the initial £500 target.

The family decided they would like the extra funds to go towards providing televisions and games consoles for the hospital Harley is in, so the children have things 'to distract them from their illness'.

One of the fundraiser organisers said: "We will be walking from Ulverston to Walney on December 4 and on the way, we will call at the other clubs in the area, starting at Ulverston and calling at Dalton, Barrow Island, Roose, Hindpool, Craven Park and finally Walney Central.

"We have been amazed at how well received the Crowdfunder has been and how people have gone above and beyond.

"To be honest, the whole rugby community has stepped up; we have had donations from up the west coast as well."

Mum Kayleigh and the rest of the family have seen the backing of the whole community as well as the rugby community who are all wishing Harley the best.

"Harley has been absolutely amazing throughout all of this; he has his good days and bad days," the Laurence Avenue resident said.

"We laugh and smile and other times we've cuddled and cried.

"This boy’s strength and bravery we'll forever admire. He is our real-life superhero."

More than £7000 has been raised so far; if you want to donate, click here.