An inspirational 20-year-old battling a rare form of cancer has been honoured by 100 youngsters from her former theatre group.

Determined Amy Usher was diagnosed with a tumour in her throat in February, despite doctors initially telling her she had a chest infection.

The student was midway through a forensic psychology degree at Lincoln University when she was given the devastating news, forcing her to postpone her studies to undergo treatment, including a tracheostomy.

Friends rallied together to organise 'Sing for Amy' – a special event on Sunday which included performances from 100 children, some as young as three, who are current or former members of the Razzmatazz youth theatre group, which rehearses in Springvale.

"They originally said I wouldn't be able to speak again," said Amy, of Willow Road, Wath, last week.

"At first I never wanted to see anyone because of my neck. I'm looking forward to Sunday but I'm scared because I feel so different.

“It's overwhelming that so many people are involved. It’s really nice; it just shows who’s really there for you.”

Amy's former drama teacher Christine Cooksey, 52, who set up Razzmatazz and helped organise the weekend's event, said she hopes to raise £2,000 for Amy, which is likely to be spent on her studies when she returns to university.

"We all felt rather helpless while Amy was going through operations and we waited to hear the news," said Christine, of Silkstone Common.

"She's an inspiration for everyone because she makes you think 'let's get on with things, let's do things'. She always has a smile on her face.

"I feel humbled by Amy. She's proved to us all and her friends how strong she is.”