The Ilford Recorder has been given a boost after its appeal for cash to build a new cancer unit topped the £100,000 mark.

Its Building for Life campaign was launched last October in conjunction with Macmillan Cancer Relief, and since then readers have been taking part in a host of fundraising events to help collect cash needed for the new £1m specialist cancer unit at King George Hospital.

And last month a team of 14 staff from the Recorder took part in the Barking five mile run, raising more than £1,000.

Reporter Anita Patterson, who is co-ordinating the appeal, said: “The response from the community has been incredible.

“The appeal has continued to go from strength to strength, touching hearts and inspiring people to organise so many fundraising events.

“As a newspaper we are proud to be part of this project that will benefit the community we serve and are confident we can build on our current success.”

Despite the success, there is still a long way to go to reach the £400,000 needed to complete the works on the new centre at the hospital, which is currently being built.

The unit will provide quality care for cancer patients on their doorsteps and will feature a dedicated Internet and information area allowing residents to find out the latest research on cancer and provide services including chemotherapy for up to 18 people, a patient counselling room, a drop-in patient information room and complementary therapies to help improve general well-being.

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