The family of a young boy with a rare form of cancer have been dealt a "cruel blow" after learning the disease has returned to his body following months of gruelling chemotherapy.

The plight of young Middlesbrough FC fan Henry Barber has touched the hearts of team supporters and the wider community since he was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.

A fundraiser set up earlier this year has now hit more than £36k after Henry’s uncles Matt and Anth decided to take on a marathon to raise awareness of the rare cancer.

The youngster joined his father Patrick at a Riverside match earlier this year, where he was introduced to the crowd to rapturous applause. 
(Image: FAMILY)

But in the last few weeks, the family have had unwelcome news of a relapse. 

Taking to the Middlesbrough FC website, Matt said: "A little more than a year on from his initial diagnosis, we hoped and prayed that Henry would now be on the road to a full recovery.

"Sadly, Henry has relapsed, with scans picking up a return of the cancer in his body.(Image: FAMILY)

"As you can imagine, after glimpsing light at the end of the tunnel following months of gruelling chemotherapy, it’s been a cruel blow."

He added: "But Henry keeps on fighting, and that drives us all on. The medical staff have been so supportive from the outset, and Henry is now undergoing further chemo; a different type as they try to attack the cancer and eradicate it however possible."

Recommended reading: 

Get more content including the stories that matter to your community from The Northern Echo for just £5 for 5 month for a limited time only here.

The illness that claimed the life of brave Bradley Lowery specifically affects children, with around 100 diagnosed with the condition each year in the UK.

(Image: FAMILY)

Meanwhile, the Yorkshire Marathon which Matt pledged to run when we first began fundraising is rapidly approaching - the Yorkshire Marathon on Sunday 20 October.

The fundraising page remains open and anyone who would like to make a donation can do so by clicking here.