A BOWLS club took part in a 24-hour game to raise money for the cancer treatment of a local schoolgirl.

Eight-year-old Anna Drysdale, from Chipping Norton, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, in 2017.

She subsequently had treatment, including chemotherapy and major surgery to remove the tumour and whole humerus from her left shoulder and arm, which was then replaced with the fibula bone from her right leg.

In November 2018, another tumour was discovered in her shoulder and she is now currently in remission.

Her next treatment will see the Holy Trinity Catholic School pupil move with her family to New York for medical care which will last between five and six months.

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The family will be moving later this week to commence targeted therapy treatment for the prevention of recurrence Osteosarcoma.

The team at Chipping Norton Bowls Club - including Percy Hickman, Martin Acock, Mick Boobyer, and Tony Smith - were joined by Anna, who started the game with her dad.

Anna's mum Keeley Drysdale, 46, said: "The idea came from the bowls club, who wanted to do some sort of fundraiser.

"They got other bowls clubs involved and the public joined in too.

"Anna really loved it and her dad is hoping to take her back as we think she might have a new hobby."

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Bacon sandwiches and cakes were sold by the club to raise extra funds, whilst a curry was made to keep the bowlers going.

At 2am they were joined by the Chipping Norton Rugby Club as almost £2,000 was raised.

Bowler Mr Hickman's daughter Katie Hickman was Anna's teacher last year.

She let Anna cut ten inches off her hair in November last year to help raise money for Anna's treatment.

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Fundraising remains ongoing - with almost £200,000 raised - and Mrs Drysdale added: "There definitely will be more hospital fees and we want to continue to raise awareness.

"The support so far has been unbelievable and we're so grateful and overwhelmed by everyone's kindness."

Anna's story was made public by musician Jack Savoretti, who lives near Chipping Norton, with the likes of Lewis Capaldi, Olly Murs and John Bishop lending their support.

To donate to Anna's JustGiving page, please visit: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Anna-Drysdale