The family of a young boy who fought a rare form of cancer will take to the streets for the London Marathon in aid of a charity that supported them.

Jamie Regan-Francis, seven, from East Ham, was diagnosed five years ago with retinoblastoma - a type of eye cancer that affects babies and young children.

His eye was replaced with an artificial one in order to prevent the cancer from spreading.

His mum Katie, aunt Victoria and grandparents Jacqui and Danny Regan will all take part in the 2017 London Marathon to support charity Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT).

Katie, 27, said: “I’ve never done anything like this before and neither have my parents, so it’s going to be quite a challenge for us all.

“We’re all really excited about the big day and Jamie will be coming along to cheer us on which will definitely keep us going.”

Jamie was taken to hospital in December 2011, and later referred to the Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, where he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma.

Following his treatment, Jamie now enjoys playing football and swimming.

Katie added: “I worried about how Jamie would cope with an artificial eye but he is really confident with it and it hasn’t stopped him doing anything. He is such an inspiration to me.

“CHECT was there for me when I needed support and now, five years after Jamie’s diagnosis, I want to give something back and there is no better way than the London Marathon.”

Chief executive of CHECT Patrick Tonks said: “We are incredibly grateful to Katie, Victoria, Jacqui and Danny for their amazing support – we wish them all the best with their training and we’ll be there on the day to cheer them on.”

To sponsor the Regan family, please visit their JustGiving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/katie-vicky-jacqui-danny