A young leukaemia survivor from Tattenhoe has stepped out with Sir Ian Botham to help launch the cricketing legend's 2010 charity walk for Leukaemia Research.

Bradley Smith, six, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in July 2007 and is still undergoing treatment.

He joined fellow survivor seven-year-old Molly Mae Shelley and Sir Ian at the launch of Beefy's Great Forget-Me-Not Walk at London's Marble Arch and Bradley's mum Arwen was delighted with how the day went.

She said: "It was really good to meet other families who have had similar experiences and it was amazing to see the hard work Leukaemia Research does, it's like a big family."

Next year's walk will see Sir Ian visit Milton Keynes on Saturday, April 17 and Arwen is keen for as many people as possible to sign up.

"When you see the huge difference that Leukaemia Research has made in the last 20 years it really hits home how important it is that we come together and support this charity, it's just got to be done," she added.

"And I really hope people will be encouraged to join Beefy so that in the future other children don't have to suffer like Bradley has."

The youngster is 'getting back to normal' now according to dad David who said: "He loves football, plays for our local team Tattenhoe Youth and was man of the match in a recent game."

Bradley was relaxed about meeting Sir Ian and even asked his mum: "Do you think I can just call him Ian?"

After meeting the two youngsters Beefy said: "If you want to know why I keep on doing these walks look no further than these two.

"I won't stop until we beat childhood leukaemia, but I can't do it without you."

The walk will mark 25 years since Sir Ian first set out on his now legendary walk from John O'Groats to Land's End and he will be walking through 10 towns in 10 days from April 10 to 19.

To sign up visit www.beefy25.com, call 0207 685 5143 or email beefy25@lrf.org.uk