Over £6,500 and counting has been raised so far for a dad of four from Biddulph who is suffering from a rare and severe form of Lupus.

Biddulph Nub News reported last week how a new fundraiser was set up for dad of four Pete Mitchell, aged 34, who has been in hospital for most of the last 18 months, to see a worldwide specialist who can help with his disease.

Pete's family say the specialist treatment needed could prove life saving after he was sadly moved to critical care as part of his NHS treatment recently.

Pete's family are aiming to raise at least £15,000 to send him to a worldwide specialist in his condition in London.

Thanks to an incredible effort and several fundraisers organised by the people of Biddulph, over £6,500 has been raised for Pete since our original story last week.

These have included donations to the online GoFundMe page as well as local raffles being held, with prizes being donated by many local businesses.

A new Facebook group - Pete's Lupus Journey - has been set up to provide updates on Pete's condition and all the latest fundraisers that residents can get involved in. If you would like to request to join, click here.

TheGoFundMe page is still live, and if you would like to donate or find out more click here.