A MASSIVE response is the only way to describe it. Those were the words of pub landlord Kelly Bishop as she told the Broadcast just how many people have pledged support for a fund-raising event for a terminally ill teenager. Mrs Bishop approached the

A MASSIVE response is the only way to describe it."

Those were the words of pub landlord Kelly Bishop as she told the Broadcast just how many people have pledged support for a fund-raising event for a terminally ill teenager.

Mrs Bishop approached the Dunmow Broadcast more than two months ago with an appeal to help Naomi Simpson, a nursery worker who used to look after her child. Naomi has fallen terminally ill with acute myeloid leukaemia and she is aged just 19.

To help Naomi live out as many of her dreams as possible, Kelly decided to raise money with a wild west-style beer festival. And after appearing on the front page of the Broadcast on April 17, the event has really taken off.

So far organisations as far away as Colchester, Haverhill and Ipswich have contributed to a growing prize fund and the event organisers have raised their expectations from a fund of £3000 to well over £10,000.

Naomi said: "I really appreciate everything everyone has done for me and my family, we are overwhelmed with people's kindness and generosity."

Mrs Bishop said: "Thanks to the support of the Broadcast newspaper and everyone who has contributed, we

have country bands reforming, massive prizes to give out, and loads of services being offered for free, including free driving lessons, live music, beauty gifts and days out.

"It is amazing, the event is hopefully going to raise enough cash to allow Naomi to do all that she wants to do."

Sadly Naomi may not be able to do all the things planned because she may not live long enough to see them come to fruition. Her family said Naomi has recently managed to get up and go downstairs, which is an achievement in itself and a glimmer of hope.

If Naomi cannot use all of the money it will be given to the cancer unit at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, where doctors found she had leukaemia.

Everyone is invited to the Wild West beer festival at the Horse and Groom pub, Cornish End, near to Finchingfield on Friday June 20, Saturday June 21 and Sunday June 22, with things going all day on the three days.