FRIENDS of a Dilton Marsh couple who are in a desperate race against time to raise £150,000 to pay for a life-saving treatment for their two-year-old son Alexander have rallied together to add to fundraising efforts.

Raluca and Philip Vinson, of Friars Close, need the money to help pay for proton beam therapy at an American hospital after their son was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour in July.

The youngster, who fell ill on holiday in Romania visiting his mum’s family, has had two eight-hour surgeries plus three rounds of chemotherapy and has a 60 per cent chance of survival.

Amanda Wakelin-Smith, of Minster Musical Monsters Group, which the child belongs to, held a concert with Warminster Philharmonic Orchestra on Friday.

“Alexander first came along to the group as a bump in Raluca’s tummy and, at the same time, I was carrying my twins,” Mrs Wakelin-Smith said.

“We heard the news in July and when the orchestra started rehearsing for our Christmas concerts in September, a lot of the group wondered how we could help so I started planning the concert.

“It only takes a few businesses to get involved with the fundraiser and it could take off.”

After hundreds turned out for the event, organisers raised £1,100, which has brought Alexander’s total to £15,000. It has since risen to just shy of £20k.

Emma Brown, 37, of Sutton Veny, is a close friend of the couple. She said: “Raising the money is time critical and Raluca and Philip are totally overwhelmed by the support.

“It is difficult for Raluca as all her family are in Romania and at times like these you want to be around your family. Her friends have tried to be her family.” and be there for her as much as we can.”

“I think because the story is so real and it could happen to anyone that is why they have been able to drum up support so quickly.”

Among attendees the concert was Warminster mayor Sue Fraser who appealed to the crowd to donate as much as they could.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/actionforalexander/.