Yorkshire's Brain Tumour Charity (YBTC) and Will's Way are to pool their talents as the demand for support has increased by 200 per cent during the Covid-19 pandemic.

YBTC started life as Andrea’s Gift in 2003, inspired by Andrea Key who was told in October 2001 that she had an aggressive brain tumour and 12 months to live.

They provide emotional, practical and financial support as well as funding world-class Yorkshire-based research.

Marie Peacock, Chief Executive of Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity.

Will’s Way was established by 15-year-old Stanningley rugby player Will Baker, with help from his family and friends, who in September 2016 was diagnosed with a Grade 2 brain tumour.

They have been providing much needed financial support for families in Yorkshire ever since, with Will continuing to live life to the full.

Lisa Barker, Will’s Mum, said “We are delighted to merge with Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity on August 31, which is our third anniversary.

"This is a real cause for celebration; the support we have developed will continue to grow.

'We have always said ‘where there’s a Will, there’s a way’ and this merge does just that.

"Uniting together means we will create a stronger force to grow support across Yorkshire, ensuring we are there for people when they need us the most.”

All the money raised to date by supporters of Will’s Way will continue to be used to support paediatric and adult patients financially through dedicated grants, as well as funding vital research.

Marie Peacock, Chief Executive of Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity, said “Our two charities are passionate and proud about the support we offer.

"Covid-19 has had a huge impact this year and we have seen demand for our support services grow by 200 per cent.

"Uniting together means we can continue to extend our reach into communities across Yorkshire, enabling us to better support people whose lives have been turned upside down by a brain tumour diagnosis, as well as continuing to fund vital research towards finding a cure.”

The “Will’s Way” champion spirit will carry on with a new dedicated fund being set up for family, friends and the wider rugby community to continue to fundraise for the new “Will’s

Way YBTC Fund” led by his parents Lisa and Ty.

To find out more please visit www.yorksbtc.org.uk, call 0113 340 0111 or email [email protected]

Leeds-based brain tumour charities join forces to provide more support for children and adults across Yorkshire