Gravesend youngster Stacey Mowle faces up to three months in hospital after suffering a setback in her fight against cancer.

The eight-year-old, who suffers from relapsed neuroblastoma, was admitted for treatment when her family was given the devastating news that the disease had progressed in her bones and returned to her bone marrow.

The diagnosis was unexpected as less than two weeks earlier tests had revealed an improvement in her condition.

While the youngster undergoes bone therapy drug treatment and intensive chemotherapy at the Royal Marsden in Surrey, her family and supporters are racing ahead with the latest fundraisers.

These include live music and entertainment at Gig4Stace at The Vigo Inn on Saturday, August 30, and family fun day Gallop4Stace at Knightsplace Farm Equestrian Centre, Cobham, on Saturday, September 6.

The Stacey Mowle Appeal needs to raise £500,000 for the cost of specialist treatment in the US, which is neither available in the UK nor funded by the NHS. The total currently stands at about £220,000.

Stacey’s dad Warren, 41, said the family remained positive despite the setback.

“We are preparing ourselves for Stacey to remain in hospital for 12 weeks but she is in brilliant hands, with top professors monitoring her condition,” he said.

Urging people to share Stacey’s appeal photos, video, events and any updates, Warren, of Trafalgar Road, added: “The family remain updated at all times but need your positive thoughts at this time.”

More than 10 music acts will perform at Gig4Stace, including X Factor finalist and Gravesend teenager Tamera Foster, from 11.30am.

Attractions at Gallop4Stace include Shetland pony rides, show-jumping, dog agility, Mowle’s Market stalls, freestyle football skills, live music, and special appearances of mascots from the hit Disney film, Frozen.

The fun starts at 11.30am and entry is free.

For more information go to The Stacey Mowle Appeal Facebook page and to donate go to www.justgiving.com/staceymowleappeal