AN ONGOING fund for the breast cancer unit is being set up to fund future enhancements, equipment and support services for patients.

Over the coming months a number of events are already planned from a skydive, a 53k run in the Alps and a half marathon to an Abba concert on October 1 hosted by legendary BBC Radio 2 DJ Johnnie Walker at Salisbury City Hall and a New Year’s Eve ball at the Michael Herbert Hall in Wilton.

Stars Appeal chairman Toddy Westropp said: “I am so utterly delighted that we are able to announce that the initial £750k has been raised for our dedicated Breast Cancer Unit in Salisbury District Hospital.

“I say initial, because we are continuing to raise funds to support the patients that will use this new unit so that any extra equipment and care that the unit requires will have the funds to make them a reality.

“We know that there are still some amazing fundraising efforts going on by local people, people who want their families, friends and even themselves to get the very best help at a difficult time. I want to thank each and every donor and fundraiser for all their incredible support during this campaign, as someone who has had a few scares in the past few years.

“I know first-hand just what a life changing difference this wonderful unit will make to all of us. I would also like to say a huge thank you to the staff from the breast team who have worked tirelessly, the Salisbury Journal for all their amazing support, along with an extraordinary group of breast cancer patients, who, together with all our other supporters are helping to make a dream come true.

“Let’s keep going. Thank you very, very much.