NEARLY £2,500 has been raised for an Isle of Wight father of two, who is hoping to travel to Japan for lifesaving cancer treatment, after a childcare centre in Shanklin held a ‘fundraising extravaganza’ event.

Reece Payne set up a fundraising campaign to help him raise £50,000 for the lifesaving treatment, and Furzehill Childcare Centre set up an event to assist in his efforts.

Held on Saturday (February 11), the event, which started as a small cake sale, turned quickly into the ‘extravaganza’, with the support of Angela Lorenz of Miss Poppins Parties and a parent, Anneka Wilson, as well as lots of helpers. 

Isle of Wight County Press: From left, Jared Burdett, on stilts, with Harry Burdett, 4, and Jack Wilson, 3.From left, Jared Burdett, on stilts, with Harry Burdett, 4, and Jack Wilson, 3. (Image: Furzehill Childcare Centre)

Several hundred people attended and took part in a bake-off, dad’s masterclass, baby boot camp and Disney dance-off. 

The event boasted plenty of things to do, including a 64 prize raffle, face painting, glitter tattoos, cake sale, circus skills and balloon modelling, with the star of the show being a visit from Peppa Pig.

So far, £2449.16 has been raised, with additional sponsor money and other donations expected to bring that total close to £3,000, exceeding Furzehill's expectations. 

Isle of Wight County Press: Cakes from the bake off competitionCakes from the bake off competition (Image: Furzehill Childcare Centre)

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A spokesperson from Furzehill said: “Reece attended with his two daughters and partner Carlie, who were also overwhelmed by the support and generosity.

“An amazing day was had by everyone who attended, there was so much for the children to do all day, and most of all, an amazing amount has been raised for an incredible cause.”

Totalling up funds from his JustGiving page, cash donations and from fundraising events, Reece believes he has now raised £35,000 — 70 per cent of a £50,000 target.

  • Donate to Reece's appeal here