A GIANT banner has been unveiled outside Derriford Hospital to launch a fundraising campaign to improve the environment for cancer patients.

The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Doctor John Mahoney, attended the unveiling of the 366 Cancer Challenge Appeal banner along with Apprentice candidate Charleine Wain, patients, members of the singing group Hot Mustard and a crew from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, who want to show their support.

The challenge aims to raise as much money as possible during the 366 days of this leap year and that money will be used to improve the environment for cancer patients at Derriford Hospital.

Jane Ransome, Oncology Ward Manager at Derriford, said: ’In 2015 we treated 480 more chemotherapy patients than in the same period the previous year and the numbers keep growing! It is therefore not surprising that we are running out of space.

’We want the best for our patients and know that being treated in a comfortable and relaxing environment is hugely beneficial at what is a very difficult time.  We want to ensure that all our patients can receive their treatment in the most comfortable and relaxed surroundings possible.’

The challenge will involve a number of events throughout the year, with a bumper events day on February 29.

Donations can be received to PO Box 366, Derriford Hospital, PL6 8DH or via Just-Giving- http://www.justgiving.com/owner-email/pleasesponsor/366cancerchallenge