Lib Dems Launch County Cancer Centre Campaign

2.05.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 1st Apr 2008

Local Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate, Richard Burt today launched his party's campaign to win backing for two new £1.5million radiotherapy machines for Worcester Royal Hospital.

Mr Burt, who is also his party's West Midlands parliamentary spokesman for health, discussed the prospects for a satellite radiotherapy unit in Worcestershire with Acute Hospital Trust bosses and agreed it was essential that investment in the two new machines comes to Worcestershire.

"There are over half a million people in Worcestershire without a local cancer centre, with patients needing to travel to Cheltenham, Coventry or Wolverhampton for treatment.

"There will be a consultation this summer on three options: to site the new machines at Cheltenham, Hereford, or in Worcestershire.

"Choosing Worcester Royal for a new satellite radiotherapy centre would enhance cancer care for Worcestershire residents, reducing travel time and offering more frequent and less intensive doses of radiotherapy for patients.

"It makes sense to locate the new machines here, and I am encouraging residents from across the county to sign the petition on our website at http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/WorcsCU and to respond to the formal consultation expected early this summer with a view to making a decision in June or July."