FUNDRAISERS have set a £50,000 target for their efforts to help Cross Hills barber Chris Riley fight cancer.

The gofundme appeal passed £35,000 this week as donations and sponsorship continued to pour in from individuals and businesses across South Craven.

More events are being organised every day as news spreads of 28-year-old Chris's brave stand against a diagnosis of stage 4 stomach cancer.

Chris's stepdad Richard Hunt this week said Chris had started chemotherapy and would undergo a second bout at Airedale Hospital next Monday.

Mr Hunt said: "Chris is awaiting confirmation from a German hospital for treatment. He has also working with a private nutritionist who is working with him to boost his immune system."

Mr Hunt said "so many wonderful things" were happening through the support of the local community and friends. 

He added: “Chris, his fiancée Elle and his family would like to thank all the local businesses and fundraisers for their time, effort and donations, as well as their wonderful generosity.” 

The flagship fundraiser is a series of sponsored challenges, spearheaded by Chris's brother Alex, with a mile-a-day run beginning this Friday alongside a 30-mile-a-day cycle challenge.

These will both run for 30 consecutive days, while Chris' stepfather continues with his 30-day swim challenge.

A group of Chris and Ella's friends have walked the Three Peaks, while Thorntons in Cross Hills raised £1,018 with a cake sale.

Dozens of firms across Craven and Keighley have donated prizes for a raffle , with tickets available from Hard Rock barbers in Cross Hills – where Chris works – Thorntons, and Amy’s Hair Salon in Keighley.

The draw will take place during a planned event in Sutton Park of October 3 to mark the end of the cycle challenge.

Separate raffles are being held by Heathcote Antiques and Fern and Foxglove, and for a Liverpool FC shirt signed by Sadio Mane. Olive Lounge raised £1,600 through their raffle.

Chris's mum Mandy said she was proud of her son’s positivity strength and commitment to beating cancer.

Chris's sister Lois is doing a fundraising ride Glusburn Field with her friend, as well as donating her pocket money.

Anyone who wishes to support fundraising for Chris should visit the Facebook page Life of Riley.