A BABY who has died from a rare cancer has touched the hearts of Runcorn wellwishers.

Seventeen-month-old Poppy-Mai Barnard had a progressive malignant rhabdoid tumour that spread around her body and into her brain.

Doctors told her parents Sammi, 29, and Andrew, 31, from Blackburn, who have relatives in Runcorn, that she only had days to live five weeks ago.

Sadly, she died yesterday afternoon in her dad's arms.

Before her death, her mum and dad launched a campaign to build Poppy’s Field, a camp site and sanctuary where sick children will be able to spend time with their family.

So far they have raised £29, 285 towards their £100,000 target.

Runcorn mum Naomi Larsen organised a family fun day at The Beechwood pub on Saturday and raised £745.

Poppy’s nan, great great nan, cousins and aunts attended and were overwhelmed by all the support.

“This story just touched my heart in so many ways,” said mum-of-three Naomi, from Beechwood.

“It’s absolutely heartbreaking.

“I have lost two children so I know what it is like.

“Poppy’s parents are so strong and amazing. I want to do all I can to help them.”

Frank and Janet Doyle from Beechwood donated hot food and there were raffles, auctions, craft stalls, face painters and home made cakes.

A signed photograph of an Everton player and a signed Widnes Vikings rugby ball were among many items that went under the hammer.

“It was really emotional,” said Naomi, a housekeeper at The Holiday Inn in Runcorn.

“Everyone was in tears as Poppy had deteriorated.

“I just love her family to bits and want to thank all my friends at work for their support and everyone else who helped me.

“We want to send so much love to Poppy's family from everyone in Runcorn.”

To support Poppy-Mai visit gofundme.com/poppy-mai.