A FAMILY hit by the devastating news that their little boy has an extremely rare inoperable tumour are holding a fundraiser to help create special memories for the youngster.

On June 9 Cameron Southam's family discovered he had terminal cancer and ten days later he was diagnosed with an incredibly rare form of tumour in the pons of the brain, the main nerve centre.

The sub type, an embryonal tumour with abundant neurophyl and true rosettes, is so rare only 40 people have been diagnosed with it in the world and Cameron, who is two-and-a-half years old, is the first in this country to be diagnosed.

Mum Sarah Hain and dad James Southam, who previously lived in Weymouth and have recently moved to Nether Cerne near Dorchester, said they have now been told treatment may actually make the tumour worse and may not even work.

They initially launched Cameron's Campaign with family and friends to raise funds for travel costs for treatment, but given the recent news they are now turning their focus to making their time with Cameron as special as possible and creating family memories like days out and other experiences.

The family has organised a barbecue and family fun day in Nether Cerne from 2pm to 9pm this Saturday and are hoping for as many people as possible to come along and support Cameron.

There will be live music, refreshments and plenty for kids including a bouncy castle, facepainting, games and a children's entertainer.

Cameron loves horses and there will be two ponies at the event for children to pet.

Signs will be put up in the village to direct people to the event.

Mum Sarah said that the family was still reeling from the news of Cameron's illness but were now focusing on their fundraising efforts and doing all they can to make their time with him extra special.

She said: "We've certainly been dealt the worst cards we could have got, that's for sure.

"The tumour and the position it's in has not been diagnosed before in this country.

"It's the complete nerve centre and it will eventually effect a little bit of everything."

Sarah added: "Our job is to stay as strong as possible and keep him as happy as possible."

Cameron is the youngest of three children, with sister Daniella, 11, and half brother Brendon, 12.

As well as the event this weekend, the family are also hoping to put on a black tie event in September to raise further funds and are looking for donations of raffle prizes for the event.

Anyone interested in supporting them can contact Sarah and James on 01300 341862 or Cameron's auntie Victoria on 07789 968223.

To make a donation to Cameron's Campaign visit gofundme.com/cameronscampaign