Gills players had a painful Saturday - and not just because of their loss against Chesterfield.

Two of the football club's stars, striker Danny Kedwell and goalkeeper Stuart Nelson, had half their legs waxed to help a little girl fighting cancer.

The pair raised over £700 in sponsorship money and donated it to Ruby Laura, a two-year-old from Rainham who is fighting Neuroblastoma - an aggressive childhood cancer.

Opponents Chesterfield also donated £20 each and £2,500 was collected in total.

Family friend and fundraising coordinator Anita Marinelli said: “It was such a fun afternoon and there was a great family atmosphere.

"Somebody told me that football players don’t have much hair on their legs because of the shin pads, but Stuart Nelson was like a gorilla, so he definitely felt it.”

Ruby only has a 40% chance of survival as it stands and needs £500,000 for lifesaving treatment in America because the NHS will only pay for part of her care.

The family are almost a quarter of the way there and are hoping to reach £100,000 by Christmas.

Mum Vikki said: “Everyone in Medway has been overwhelming in their support and it would be just amazing for us to reach that target.

“What a great present that would be.

“I’d just like to thank everyone for their support so far and wish you all a Merry Christmas with your own loved ones.”

Vikki and dad Rob are looking forward to the festive break tucked up with Ruby and her five-year-old brother Freddy.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/RubyYoungJourney or text RLYJ88 and the amount you wish to give to 70070.