FAMILIES in Royal Wootton Bassett have rallied to raise money in memory of a young man who lost his determined fight against cancer.

The fun day at Charrins Bar in the high street was originally intended to help pay for James Baker’s treatment in Germany. But he lost his battle just over a week ago.

Organiser Steve Vincent said: “It has been overwhelming. We have had lots of donations.”

“I was devastated when I heard. I went through chemo with him. It was really heart breaking – he was just like a best mate to everyone.”

Steve’s mum Caroline helped to organise the event. She said for the first couple of days after they heard James had lost his fight for life they were not sure whether to carry on with the event.

But then they decided to go ahead because they wanted to raise as much money as possible.

The response from locals was heart-warming.

“We’ve had people bringing in cakes to sell, we’ve had more donations this morning,” said Caroline. Business up and down the high street had also helped out.

A bouncy castle, 1950s hairstyling, massages and a lucky dip were staged as part of the fun day, along with an auction and cake sales.

Steve and friend Vinnie Chandler also decided to shave their heads to raise some extra cash. Vinnie had £200 in sponsorship before the clippers even touched his hair.

James was 26 when he died while being treated at a clinic in Germany. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2014 but was given the all-clear after undergoing several operations as well as chemotherapy.

But the cancer later returned and he was told it had spread to his lungs, chest, stomach and brain.

Refusing to give up he decided to try alternative therapy in Germany. That is when the online appeal was launched. Within hours it had reached £5,000. Before his death it stood at £30,000.

James’ family is working out how the money raised for his treatment in recent weeks can be used to help other cancer patients and their families. They are also keen to encourage people to explore different options when they are deciding treatments.

His life will be celebrated at a funeral at All Saints' Church in Lydiard Millicent for anyone who knew him. The commemoration on October 28 starts at 12.30pm and is followed by a service at Kingsdown Crematorium at 2.15pm and a wake at Woodlands Edge.

Those who would like to make a contribution to the fund in James’ name can do so online at gofundme.com/bakemanalternative