A PROJECT manager is being sought to help fulfil the dreams of a teenager who died from cancer.

Julie and Trevor Robson, who lost their 18-year-old daughter Jess to sarcoma cancer in 2014, have planning permission to construct a holiday lodge and two glamping pods to provide holiday respite for ill children on land in Henshaw, near Bardon Mill, and are looking for somebody to lead the project through its final stages.

Their dream is to offer a family break for children who spend a lot of their time in hospital, with the Henshaw site located equidistant from Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary and Carlisle hospitals.

While Jess was fighting cancer, the family visited the Lake District and, from that moment, it was Jess’ dream to provide a similar lodge for other poorly young people. Mrs Robson said: “When we visited the lodge in the Lake District, Jess said it would be lovely for the children at hospital.

“It was perfect to get away from the towns and cities, and we looked at various places but this was the best spot due to its location between the RVI and Carlisle.

“When Jess was ill, she didn’t want to go too far from the RVI in case she became poorly, and hospitals become second homes to children.

“We are pleased with the progress which has been made, and we can’t wait to fulfil Jess’ dream.”

The final plans are being drawn up for the site, and North-East companies have been generous in getting to this stage.

Planning consultants WYG, architects Sadler Brown and design company M Designs have provided their services free of charge.

The Robson family were hopeful the respite centre would be open by Jess’ birthday in April.

However, the summer is a more realistic target, they said.

Mrs Robson said: “When the first family uses the lodge, it will be amazing and such an incredible moment.

“Jess will be watching down, thinking how proud she is of us.”