Robyn Brooks has completed a course of intense chemotherapy as American doctors battle to save the six-year-old's life.

Cancer sufferer Robyn was today said to be "fit and well" as she continues her treatment at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York.

And her father Garry, speaking from the family's base in New Jersey, sent a special message of thanks to the people of Bradford who have raised thousands of pounds for his poorly daughter.

The appeal fund, which is being used to pay for Robyn's specialist treatment, now stands at more than £290,000 - well over half of the £500,000 total which is thought to be needed.

But Garry said it was vital that the fundraising continued to give Robyn the best possible chance of beating neuroblastoma, the rare form of cancer from which she suffers.

Bradford people began rallying round Robyn after a campaign was launched earlier this year, spearheaded by Pop Idol Gareth Gates and his family.

Shops, pubs and clubs across the city are still raising money and special events are planned throughout the summer.

And last month Gareth met some of the young people who had helped to raise cash when he performed at a concert in Manchester. Today Garry said: "We would once again really like to take the opportunity to thank Gareth and his family, and the people of Bradford in general for everything that they have done so far for Robyn.

"She is doing absolutely fantastic out here and having finished one course of chemotherapy she is in very high spirits indeed. The doctors are very pleased with her progress so far."

Although Robyn has undergone chemotherapy before, it is understood the treatment in America is more intense.

The six-year-old, of Rochdale, has now lost her hair and doctors are waiting to analyse the results of tests and scans.

Robyn's uncle Brian Brooks, who is helping to co-ordinate the fundraising campaign, said: "The doctors want to see how much the cancer has been reduced by the chemotherapy but everyone seems to be absolutely amazed by how well she is doing at the moment."

He said the family did not know how long they would be in America where doctors believe pioneering treatment could save Robyn. In the UK her severe condition is regarded as terminal.

But he said it was vital the fundraising did not stop now. "Everything is still going really well but it would be a shame for us to get this far and not reach our target," he said.

For more information about the appeal, visit www.robynbrooks.co.uk or call (01706) 643965.