A TOUCHING Christmas wish has been made by a Droitwich Spa family who have raised thousands of pounds for cancer research.

Debi and Nigel Wainwright have spent a busy year fundraising for Alistair's Appeal, a campaign launched when their six-year-old son died.

The couple hope residents will be inspired by the season of goodwill and help them hit their £25,000 target before the 2002 anniversary of Alistair Wainwright's death.

The Chawson First School pupil died from a brain tumour on May 12, 2000 after a courageous battle.

His grieving parents, of Charles Dickens Close, initially wanted to thank the Diana, Princess of Wales Children's Hospital, in Birmingham, where Alistair was treated.

They asked for donations instead of flowers at their son's funeral.

But, people's generosity was overwhelming, and the Wainwright's, who have a five-year-old daughter Lauren, began an official appeal.

Debi, 44, a sales manager, said: "We originally aimed to collect £5,000 for maintenance at the hospital but soon took the plunge and announced our £25,000 target.

"The extra cash will go directly to child brain tumour research at the hospital.

"Some people see research as a bottomless pit but without further breakthroughs in medical science we can't improve the survival rate for children like Alistair."

Fantastic support from family, friends and even strangers means the fund boasts more than £20,000.

An extra £4,000 is needed before the bumper cheque can be handed over.

If you can help, call Debi and Nigel on (01905) 796275.