A campaign launched by the Bolton Evening News to raise money for a new cardiac support unit has raised £356,000 within 24 hours.

The newspaper has joined forces with the Royal Bolton Hospital to raise £1m to build a 10-bed unit by June 2003.

To start the coronary care appeal off the hospital pledged £150,000 and it was officially launched at the Reebok Stadium, where companies were invited to pledge their support.

Bolton breadmakers, Warburtons, and voluntary body the WRVS, have both pledged money and £5,000 has also been given by the Bolton Cardiac Support Group.

Editor-in-chief of the Bolton Evening News, Steve Hughes, said: “A new heart unit is desperately needed and will make a real difference to people’s lives. I know the people of Bolton will give it their support.”

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly will also write to Health Secretary Alan Milburn about the BEN’s campaign and press for more money for Bolton’s health service.

She said: “The appeal is a typical example of the community spirit that exists in Bolton and the sheer level of backing that it has already received from the local community is further evidence of this.”

Bolton has one of the highest heart attack rates in England and there are not enough beds in its coronary care unit to cope.

It is hoped that work on the new unit will begin in December, to be ready for its first patients by June 2003.

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