AN URGENT appeal has been launched to help a young dad who has just weeks to live.

Ryan Morrison, 34, who works in Arlingham, received the devastating news after a pre-operation procedure at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital just over two weeks ago.

Now his friends have launched an appeal to support his eight-year-old son Josh as he grows up with more than £3,500 raised so far.

In November, Ryan went to the doctor after suffering with stomach cramps which led to the discovery of stomach ulcers.

Over the last few months he has been to Gloucestershire Royal on several occasions due to further stomach pain.

In the early hours of Monday, July 18 he had a pre-operation appointment for the stomach ulcers and it was during this procedure that medics spotted signs of advanced cancer.

He was given the news that the disease had spread throughout his entire body and was given around a month to live.

Ryan began chemotherapy on Friday but this is only likely to prolong his life for a short time.

The GoFundMe appeal has been set-up by friend and work colleague of four years Matthew Smith with money raised going into a trust fund for Josh, who attends Park Junior School in Stonehouse, when he turns 25.

Ryan, who lives in Stonehouse, wants his son to use the money for something worthwhile such as a deposit on a house.

A labourer, Ryan has worked at DPT barn conversions in Arlingham for 11 years.

"He doesn’t want to spend the precious time he has left worrying about money issues and instead wants to spend as much time as he can with his son," said Matthew.

"The funds raised mean that Ryan can continue to support Josh long after he is gone.

“I was with Ryan the other night and he is completely overwhelmed by the support.

“He is the person who everyone loves, he’s that type of guy.

“Josh is such a sweet little kid - he loves playing football.

“Ryan wants the fundraiser to show his son how much everyone loved and valued him."

To donate to the appeal go to bit.ly/3Smj9f5