AN EVERTON fan was visited by one of his team's star players after being diagnosed with cancer, with the moment being described as a dream come true.

Just after Ashley Rumsey's second son was born less than five month ago, he was diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer, as well a liver metastasis, a cancerous tumour which has spread from another part of the body.

Along with his partner Nikita Anderson, the pair, who live in Hereford, is now trying to raise £250,000 towards costs.

"Like some cruel cosmic joke, Ashley has just been diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer and liver metastasis," Miss Anderson said.

"It is absolutely unimaginable to me that Ashley will not be able to see our little boy grow and to shape him into the man we'd both like him to be."

Miss Anderson set up a JustGiving page to help with the costs arising since the diagnosis, with local football clubs including Ewyas Harold donating players' match subs to the cause.

Costs include a change of diet, equipment and potential trials, one of which, Lazarus treatment, is £250,000 per patient.

But in the meantime, there was a morale boost for the family as Premier League footballer André Gomes' visited Mr Rumsey, 41.

"André Gomes took an interest in the story and said that he wanted to go and see him (Mr Rumsey)," Miss Anderson added.

"He said he'd come and watch a match with Ashley which was nice because usually we'd be stuck on the motorway on our way to see a player.

"It was a dream come true, there's no words to describe it."

The Portuguese international spent more than six hours with the family and watched Everton come from behind to beat Watford 3-2 in the Premier League.

After the visit the midfielder, 26, tweeted: "Had the opportunity to surprise Ashley, a huge Evertonian unfortunately diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. You inspired me and I'll never forget this.

"Congrats team for the fantastic comeback and thank you Ashley for your strength, courage and passion."

For more information or to donate, visit bit.ly/387y05w