FRIENDS, family and neighbours have been rallying round to ensure that the dreams of courageous two-year-old Daniel Bowler come true.

Daniel, who is dying from cancer, loves riding around on his motorised bike, which was bought through a collection at Volvo in Houndsmill.

And he was delighted when a biker on a gleaming Harley Davidson came to his home in Coleman Close, Oakridge, recently.

Carol Harris, a member of the Thames Valley UK Chapter Group, went through all the controls with Daniel and let him sit on the bike.

Carol's bike will be one of a large number that will be coming to Basingstoke to take part in a two-day charity event at the War Memorial Park on June 15 and 16, called "Daniel's Festival of Hope - fighting cancer for young and old".

Sadly, Daniel's health is rapidly deteriorating and he may not live to see the festival, which is being organised by his father Mike in aid of the charity CLIC (Cancer and Leukaemia in Childhood).

Mike, and Daniel's mother Michelle, are determined, though, that the festival will be a big success.

As well as gifts and the recent motorbike visit, Daniel went to Legoland in Windsor with his family last Friday.

The money for them to go was raised by a children's party at The Wellington Social Club in Winklebury.

Mike said: "He loved the surprise - it put a smile back on his face."

lReaders can give the event a boost by putting in a bid over the telephone for a tasty two-foot-tall chocolate bunny. The auction will raise money for CLIC.

To take part, call 01256 337434 leaving your name, address, telephone number and bid.

All bids must be made by this Friday, May 17.