PLANS to send George Mitchell to New York for pioneering brain surgery have been put on ice.

The Lyneham youngster, who celebrates his fourth birthday later this month, will now undergo seven more weeks of chemotherapy in an attempt to further shrink a brain tumour.

His parents, Fraser and Sophie, will then make the trip across the Atlantic for talks with a surgeon who specialises in laser surgery.

UK surgeons refuse to operate saying the risks are too great.

But the close-knit family insist they want the tumour removed.

Not long after the diagnosis two years ago, his parents launched Pledge for George, a fundraising drive aimed at raising enough cash to pay for the operation.

More than £85,000 has now rolled into the account.

Mr Mitchell, who serves at RAF Lyneham, said it's a huge relief that the money has been raised.

Before the family opt for surgery, however, they plan to exhaust every other option.

"When he's finished the course we'll give him a break for a couple of weeks then we'll see about taking him to the US," said Mr Mitchell.

George seems to be keeping his spirits up despite infections that are marring his progress.

"He's had several infections which has made things difficult for him," Mr Mitchell added.