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Joseph Archer spent his third birthday in hospital after being diagnosed with cancer.

His mum Beckie Archer and stepdad Ryan Sowerby, wanted to make his birthday special so they ordered a £200 shed to make into a playhouse. Unfortunately, the parcel was left uncovered at the front of the house and when they arrived back, it was gone.

After this happened, Ryan’s friends Samantha Miller and Mark Gippert of Plains Farm donated a Wendy house to the family but they haven’t yet been able to get this as Joe remains in the RVI battling his cancer.

Beckie Archer with son Joe Archer, three, daughter Amy Archer, seven and partner Ryan Sowerby.

In January, he rang the bell as his chemotherapy and radiotherapy came to an end which was a great celebration for him and all of the family.

Sadly, just a couple of days later, doctors found tumours had returned to both of his lungs and this news came as a huge shock.

Now, Ryan has decided to take part in a sponsored head shave to raise money for Joe who has lived in the RVI for around eight months.

Beckie created the fundraiser on Facebook which has already raised over £500 of a £200 target from over 40 people going towards a holiday when he is well enough to travel.

The family were shocked when they were given the news.

Kelly Sowerby, 42, Joe’s grandmother, said: “We couldn’t believe how quick it was. It’s really difficult and we have been through to see him to give Beckie and Ryan a break and some sleep. It is unbelievable but he is constantly smiling.”

Joe will now have further treatment including four different types of chemotherapy for around ten months.

His mam Beckie thanked her mum Maria and her twin brother Rob saying “they have been a massive help and we wouldn’t have gotten as far as we have done without them.”

She added: “I just had an out of body experience when they told me.

After ringing the bell, Joe has sadly been re-diagnosed after doctors found tumours on his lungs.

“He’s the best he’s ever been though. He’s dancing, singing and being so cheeky. He’s walking around again and it’s sad but he’s definitely getting the strength to battle it.

“He’s amazing and all the nurses are wrapped around his little finger.”

To donate to Ryan’s fundraiser, click here.

'He’s definitely getting the strength to battle it' - Family hail 'amazing' three-year-old Sunderland boy as cancer returns just days after ringing the bell