A father’s book telling the story of his son’s battle against a serious illness has raised over £5,000 for a local neurological charity.

Patrick Keylock, from Hay-on-Wye, has written ‘I’m Alright Jack’ which has sold 700 copies since it was printed in May this year.

In the book, Patrick’s recounts the story of his son’s battle with a brain tumour, after he was diagnosed at just 17 years old.

In 2014, Jack Keylock received an innocuous head injury, which unknown at the time probably saved is life. Appearing at first to be unharmed, further examination revealed an aggressive brain tumour - which would require all the skill and expertise of the medical profession if he were to survive and regain the life he knew.

‘I’m Alright Jack’ not only recounts Jack’s refusal to capitulate, but also details the mental anxiety endured by both patient and family as they battle the terrible diagnosis.

The Keith Leighton Neurological Fund are the proud recipients of the proceeds from the sale of the book - which amounted to an incredible £5,228.

Sheila Leighton, who runs the fund, said: “We thank the Keylock family most sincerely for the wonderful gift to help families facing similar situations. A huge thank you to everyone who bought a copy.”

“Jack’s brain tumour had a great impact on the family - Patrick, Heather, Jack and George. Jack went to Birmingham, over seven years, and has had many operations and treatments. He is a very special young man.

“Patrick decided he had to put their journey as a family into words. With compassion and hope, he has written a most inspiring, humbling book.”

Sheila set up the fund Keith Leighton Neuro Fund 34 years ago in memory of her late husband. Keith died in 1987 aged 41 years old, after a battle of just over a year with a brain tumour.

The neurological charity provides financial support to local families in similar situations as well as funding equipment and research when sufficient charity funds are available.

The charity extends to an approximate radius of 10 miles of Hay-on-Wye and over the decades Sheila has worked tirelessly to help countless families with ill youngsters and adults across the community.

“Brain illness or injury is not a common form of illness, but it has a enormous impact on families,” said Sheila.

“With modern technology, new treatments also so much more research, more people can come through with a much better chance of leading a good and fruitful life.

“Of all the children we have had the privilege to support three have gone on to university and are now teaching also the first child, who was three, is now in her early thirties, and she works with horses.”

The fund continues to support local families - including a young girl called Henrietta.

Sheila said: “In the summer of 2019 a local family had their 6-year-old daughter Henrietta diagnosed with a brain tumour.Sshe had an operation in the Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“Fast forward to November 2021, she is on week 26 of 72 of treatment - she’s a very brave little girl and an inspiration to us all.”

Due to the lockdowns and social restrictions of the last 18 months, fundraising has been more challenging for the charity. However, Sheila persevered with her efforts and was able to sell some homemade chutney - as well as receiving some very kind donations which helped the fund enormously.

During May bank holiday this year, they hosted a ‘Sale on the Lawn’ event to try and raise funds.

Sheila said: “ We had a very old and faded gazebo, with a garden table and chairs!

“People generously gave items to sell, as well as cups of coffee, treats and Welsh cakes.

“To stand and listen to the birds singing also people laughing, and people enjoying each other’s company after the isolation was a joy.”

Seven sales were held in all with a total of £2,352 raised for the fund.