THE childhood friend of an avid junior rugby player who was diagnosed with bone cancer will run the Great Manchester Run for him and his family.

Bridgewater High pupil James Wright is hoping to raise money by taking part in the 10k challenge tomorrow, Sunday for 15-year-old Callum Stone.

The pair, who both attended Woolston Primary School, lost contact after James moved to Appleton in his final year.

But despite the boys attending different schools, with Callum now at Kings Leadership Academy in Woolston, James said his friend's cancer diagnosis spurred him to take on the run.

He said: "I've known Callum since I was young as we went to the same primary school and we were both very good mates. I lost contact with him and didn't see him much other than now and again when our parents may have met up.

"But as soon as I heard about his condition I wanted to do something to help him as we have known each other so long and have been very good friends.

"I've never done an event like this before. I've done cross country races before but never a charity run."

Fifteen-year-old Callum suffered a serious leg break following a training accident for Woolston Rovers last year.

After the junior player's leg had failed to heal properly, he was taken back to hospital where he received the devastating diagnosis of bone cancer.

Since then, the rugby community have rallied together by fundraising for Callum and his family, with more than £12,500 raised to date.

In the lead up to the Simplyhealth Great Manchester Run tomorrow, 15-year-old James is also hoping to raise £300 for the family.

He said the money raised will reduce the families 'financial stress' from taking time off work to attend treatment and appointments with Callum.

"I have been running often and training for the event so hopefully it all pays off and we raise as much money as possible for Callum and his family to help them through this difficult time," added James.

Donations to James' cause can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jamesswrightt