A weekly newspaper has launched an appeal to raise £750,000 for a new MRI scanner at its local hospital.

The Mansfield Chad is calling on its readers to back the fundraising drive for the new state-of-the-art scanner at King’s Mill Hospital to allow them to diagnose illnesses quicker.

The campaign has so far raised just over £12,000, receiving support from local sports stars, businesses and volunteer groups.

And reporter Catherine Allen is training to take part in a half-marathon next month to raise funds for the appeal.

Reporter Stephen Thirkill, who is leading the campaign, said: “King’s Mill Hospital, like the Chad, is an integral part of the Mansfield and Ashfield community and as a newspaper we felt it was vital we did something to promote our area.

“We are delighted to be working alongside King’s Mill to help purchase a new MRI scanner, which will provide a lasting legacy for many years and help thousands of people across our area.

“Supporting your local community in ways to help improve the area is an important aspect of life for any local newspaper and one we take very seriously at the Chad.

“So far we have raised more than £12,000, which is a wonderful effort in such a short space of time.

“The response of residents, readers and local businesses has been very touching. It is wonderful to see donations flooding in to the Chad office each week and we are confident that by working together we can reach this huge target.”

Catherine has raised more than £300 so far ahead of the Robin Hood Half Marathon in Nottingham on 30 September, which was boosted by a £200 donation from the Kirkby Rotary Club.

She said: “I had wanted to do a half marathon for some time now so I thought I’d raise money for our MRI Scanner Appeal at the same time.

“Everyone has really got behind me including friends, colleagues and the community. It’s not the most gruelling challenge in the world – but I think the appeal is something that people can relate to.”

Bosses at the hospital say the new scanner will revolutionise the service they offer and allow them to treat patients quicker, safer and allow them to diagnose illnesses like cancer at an earlier stage.

To sponsor Catherine, click here.