THE mum of a five-year-old Gourock boy with leukaemia is campaigning for more funding to fight childhood cancer.

Gillian Mowat spoke out today as new figures revealed that only one per cent of funding from a leading cancer charity is directed at children.

Gillian is appealing for people in Inverclyde to unite and join the Tele-backed Glow Gold Campaign to light up homes, schools, workplaces and community centres as she tries to heighten awareness about the devastating impact the disease has on young people.

Her campaign has been inspired by Nathan’s battle with the disease.

Gillian, of St Andrew’s Drive, said: “I want to make changes for Nathan and other children.

“There have only been three new drugs for childhood cancer in the last 30 years and Cancer Research gives £5.4 million of their overall funding budget of £504m to childhood cancer — that is 1.33 per cent.

“I think that just speaks for itself.

“It does make me angry sometimes.

“Every day 11 children are diagnosed with cancer in the UK, and three won’t make it.”

The Tele has teamed up with Nathan and his mum to encourage as many local folk as possible to show a golden touch and put up window displays and light candles next Thursday — or even donate money to help.

Local landmarks such as the Victoria Tower, Beacon and Albany buildings will be lighting up while local schools, Morton and politicians have pledged support too.

Meanwhile Gillian’s son is continuing his battle against the disease.

His mum said: “I mostly try to keep positive. Nathan is doing well, he looks like nothing is wrong with him.

“But he still has a year left to go and three years of treatment is a lifetime for a little boy.”

You can play your part in the Glow Gold drive by wearing gold next Thursday for the start of the campaign.

You can also install gold coloured lights, put gold in your window, wear a badge, light a candle or put up fairy lights.

To find out how easy it is to get involved, and help kids like Nathan, just email glowgoldkids@yahoo.co.uk or slochrie@greenocktelegraph.co.uk