A CHARITY has launched a desperate appeal for big-hearted Gazette readers to help save a young man with a giant life-threatening tumour.

Benin Christian Support, based in Thorpe, has launched an appeal to raise £1,000 for a vital operation to save 21-year-old Wilfred Kintorou.

Wilfred, who lives in Cotonou, Benin, has a large tumour on his face which is getting bigger by the day.

The tumour itself is benign, but due to the size and rapid growth it is now putting a huge strain on Wilfred’s breathing and makes it almost impossible for him to eat.

It needs to be removed as soon as possible – or it could become deadly.

Benin Christian Support has taken up the cause to help fund Wilfred’s operation after being told about his situation.

Charity bosses are collecting donations to send off to liaisons in Benin.

Treasurer Maureen Sanders said: “Wilfred’s situation has become quite urgent and the tumour is distorting his face.

“It is only going to get worse and it will take his life if nothing is done.

“We are a very small charity, it is just eight ladies across Tendring, but we do weekly fundraisers and people really step up to help in a serious situation like this.

“We have had incredible support in the past and we hope people will help us save Wilfred.”

The £1,000 will pay for the scans and analysis, surgeon and anaesthetist, nursing costs and medicine.

Maureen added: “When there is a serious situation we are contacted to see if we can help, and we always do our due diligence on the people involved.

“It is such a poor country. He would not be able to afford a paracetamol, let alone the surgery he needs.

“He is only 21 years-old but he has no money or family, and this is a very dangerous problem.

“I hope we can help save him with the help of generous donations here.”

Donations should be sent to: BCS The Annexe, The White House, High Street, Thorpe le Soken, CO16 0EF.

People can also call 01255 862618 for more information.