Sophie Cox throws her judo belt off for cancer

European and Commonwealth Games judo bronze medallist, Sophie Cox from England, was one of the first to have her photograph taken. The goal? To raise money for the little girl Robyn Brooks from Rochdale for her cancer treatment in the United States.

Rochdale folk have taken to their hearts a seven-year-old youngster who is fighting a brave battle to beat cancer.

Robyn Brooks is suffering from neuroblastoma, a rare form of the disease, and is currently in America where surgeons are working hard to help save her life as she undergoes gruelling treatment - supported by her family who are with her in New York.

Her vital stay at the New York hospital would not have been possible without the remarkable support of the people of Rochdale, who have dipped into their pockets and staged countless fundraising events in order to help pay for the treatment and to give Robyn a fighting chance.

Her plight - and the heroic efforts locally to help her - have been highlighted even further by some of the most famous celebrities in Britain, who have lent their support to the cause. Pop stars Gareth Gates, Atomic Kitten and Blue are just a few of the stars to join the appeal.

Hundreds of thousands of pounds have already been raised by the appeal ... but as treatment continues and Robyn battles away, more is needed to ensure that it continues and that she has every chance of winning against all the odds.

The Observer has been supporting Robyn from the start. Observer photographer Tony Cross is doing an excellent job taking pictures of volunteers and some of his subjects are baring all to raise money for Robyn’s cancer treatment
Judoka Sophie Cox takes her belt off, but how far does she go for Robyn?
Carpet shop worker Sue Benson, on the other hand, has found an enterprising way to advertise her wares, while readers should be able to guess what James Cash does for a living by his picture. There are still some people waiting to have their pictures taken, including The Ambassadors Tribute to Legends band.

You will have to splash out on the calendar to see what she is doing with her medals. It will be available next month for a donation of 5 pounds.