HERE in York we’re used to stalls set up in the city’s squares and public spaces. Some sell charity bric-a-brac; others lobby for an end to Middle East violence or seek to collect names for petitions on local causes.

The stall set up in St Helen’s Square tomorrow, however, will be special. It will be run by three mothers, each of whom has endured the anguish of seeing a child suffer from a brain tumour.

Marie Hughes’ son, Oscar, tragically lost his battle for life this summer. Julia Holding’s daughter, Ruby, was left blind after being diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of seven. Emma Taylor’s daughter, Juliet, meanwhile, was successfully treated for a life-threatening tumour, but still suffers headaches.

The three mums have now joined forces to raise awareness about the symptoms of brain tumours – and to try to reduce the time it takes to diagnose children and young people.

Brain tumours are, thankfully, rare. “But when it happens to you... it feels like it is no longer rare,” Julia said. “If this helps one child in York... then it will have been worth it.”

Most of us can’t imagine what these women have been through. We salute their courage. And we salute their determination to try to help other parents know what to look out for. If the worst comes to the worst for some York family, early diagnosis just could make all the difference.