BUSINESSES in Accrington hoping to raise funds for a desperately ill youngster are appealing for local entertainers to help out.

A number of firms in the town have pledged to help out with Ryan's Day, which will raise funds for the family of Ryan Cottrell, eight, who suffers from the skin condition epidermolysis bullosa.

Thanks to an official seal of approval for the event, shoppers in the town centre will be greeted with a banner announcing the occasion, hanging from the Town Hall.

Today the leader of the council, Coun Peter Britcliffe, praised the youngster for battling on with the condition, which causes his skin to blister and eventually fall off.

Coun Britcliffe said: "Ryan is a brave little chap and if we can help in some small way, we will be delighted to do so."

For Ryan's family - parents Amanda Dodds and Shaun Cottrell - looking after the youngster is full-time job.

Businessman Kevin Cosgrove, of Sell It All, in Blackburn Road, and Kristen Dewell, manager of Si Cafe Bar, also in Blackburn Road, have teamed up to help, organising a fund-raising day.

Along with other generous Accrington firms including Spex opticians, in Church Street, they hope to raise thousands at from the event, on October 17.

Ryan's mum Amanda, 30, said: "Ryan is really looking forward to the event because it's the day we come back from the hospital in London. It's something to look forward to.

"It's nice to know that people are beginning to find out about his condition."

So far, the organisers have written to celebrities and dignitaries for help and Mr Cosgrove says letters of acknowledgement have been received from Cherie Blair and Richard Branson. Local firm the North Lancs Training Group have made a donation.

But to make the event a success, local bands and entertainers are needed. The organisers are hoping to fill the day, at the Si cafe bar, with singers, jazz bands and magicians.

Mr Cosgrove said: "We still require celebrities of all kinds. It will be a day of informality, music, entertainment, celebrities and a buffet." To help call Kristen on 01254 382969 or Kevin on 01254 381739.

Anyone wishing to donate to Ryan's Fund should make cheques payable to Ryan's Fund and send them to: Appleby's Accountants, Empire House, Edgar Street, Accrington, BB5 1PT or Si cafe bar, 77-79 Blackburn Road, Accrington, BB5 1JJ. Alternatively they can be taken to The Royal Bank of Scotland in Blackburn Road.