A RACE against time is being mounted to save the life of a courageous little girl fighting a rare and aggressive cancer.

Two-year-old Anya Bentham has had intense chemotherapy and blood and platelet transfusions since she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma last October.

She had major surgery to remove two small tumours from her abdomen last month.

Her only chance of survival now relies on treatment in America, not available on the NHS, which costs £250,000.

Her family is overwhelmed by wellwishers who have climbed mountains, held car boot sales, sponsored events and collections and raised £135,000.

Widnes Vikings have donated thousands of pounds.

Anya’s dad, Graeme Bentham, aged 44, from West Bank, Widnes, said: ”We are so appreciative of everyone’s support. We’ve had such a huge response, it’s been phenomenal.”

Vikings winger and Samoan International Patrick Ah Van, famed for his flowing locks and matching beard, now sports a rat’s tail after having his head shaved for the appeal.

Anya wasn’t well enough to attend the game against Wigan Warriors but her family was treated like VIPs.

Graeme said: “It was absolutely brilliant. Anya’s brothers Adam, nine, and Stevie, 12, led the players out. Widnes rugby has always played a big part in my life. My dad took me and my brother since we were small.”

He wants to thank the club’s marketing manager, Brian O’Connor who walked 36 miles along the sandstone trail to boost funds.

‘Team Anya’ now has 158 volunteers striving to reach the target.

Graeme added:”Four months from now we’re looking at therapy treatment in America which will give her a better chance of a long term cure.”

Before then, Anya faces more high dose chemo and six weeks in isolation at Alder Hey after having stem cells replanted.

Grame said: “Anya amazes us with her resilience and strength. We feel blessed to enjoy such lovely times with the most funny and kind hearted little girl.”

Anya’s mum, Naomi Stanley, aged 27, said: “She is not just my daughter, she is my best friend. It is unfair we have to watch her suffer through treatments and side effects that I don’t think I could handle even as a grown woman.

“All this with no guarantee of a happy ending. No child or family should have to endure what we have been through and have yet to come.”

If you wish to help, visit justgiving.com/appeal4anya