FRIENDS of a boy battling rare bone cancer have organised parachute jumps and curry nights to help support his treatment.

Conall Riley, eight, from Westcliff, was rushed to A&E at Southend Hospital on Sunday, February 7, after complaining of pain in his right shin.

He was later diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a cancer that affects fewer than 30 children per year in the UK.

After his diagnosis, family friend Emma Woof set up a Crowdfunding page to help the family, but the fundraising efforts has quickly expanded to include selling wristbands and hosting afternoon teas.

Conall’s father, James, 38, said: “Throughout this time, my amazing wife Cara has been by his side while I have looked after our other children Finn and Caireann, with us occasionally swapping duties.

“During these troubled times, it has been completely overwhelming that the community, friends and family can pull together to support a young boy and his family whose world has been turned upside down."

Conall has already spent more than 50 nights in hospital and undergone three rounds of chemotherapy, with side effects including loss of control of his body and memory loss which left him unable to identify his siblings.

After the third round of chemotherapy, Conall arrived home last Friday after five weeks in hospital, just in time to celebrate sister, Caireann’s third birthday.

Conall’s ‘Rainbow Army’ initiative has been created on Facebook by Jackie Gooding, 43, a member of the PTA at Earls Hall Primary School, which Conall attends.

It encourages people to post pictures of themselves wearing the rainbow wristband as a show of support.

Ms Gooding said: “It has been fantastic. We ordered 1,300 wristbands and they have nearly sold out.”

The money is being split between Conall's family, who are modifying their home to make it more comfortable for him, and UCL Hospital, in London, where Conall has received treatment, for new toys in their ward play room.

Mr Riley said: “We have also received incredible support and kindness from teachers and parents at Conall's school, as well as Laura Lee and all at Southend Rugby Club.

“Our amazing family and friends have pulled together and supported us throughout this difficult time.”

For more information about fundraising events, search for Conall's Rainbow Army on Facebook.