Cheltenham's MP, Alex Chalk, has marked World Cancer Day by stepping up his campaign to secure new state of art cancer equipment at the town's hospital.
He met in Parliament with representatives from seven of the UK’s leading cancer charities, Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer Care, Breast Cancer Now, CLIC Sargent, Anthony Nolan, Bowel Cancer UK and Marie Curie, to call on people across Cheltenham to show their support by wearing a Unity Band or donating to the cause. The bands are available from each charity on their websites, shops and other retail outlets for a suggested donation of £2. All money raised from the Unity Bands will go towards the charities individual work.
Speaking following the event, Mr Chalk also reiterated his determination to secure new equipment to complement Cheltenham's oncology centre.
He said: “This week (Wednesday 8th Feb) I will be meeting national NHS officials to call for the introduction of state of the art LINAC (cancer treatment) machines at Cheltenham General Hospital.
“We have an excellent oncology unit supported by a dedicated and professional team and our rates of early death from cancer remain below the England average. But investment in the latest technology will provide a huge boost to cancer survival rates, while also reducing side effects.
“Between 2005 and 2015, Cheltenham felt like the Cinderella of Gloucestershire NHS. We lost Battledown’s Children Services, doctor-led maternity services and night-time A&E. I’m determined that Cheltenham’s voice is now heard loud and clear by the NHS top brass and we get the investment we need.'