TV presenter backs cancer appeal

Gloria's daughter Caron Keating died from cancer

Broadcaster Gloria Hunniford has become a patron of an appeal for a new centre for cancer sufferers at the James Paget Hospital in Norfolk.

About £400,000 has already been raised towards the £1.5m bill for the East Coast Palliative Care Centre.

Architects competed to design the centre which will be built next to the hospital in Gorleston, Norfolk.

Gloria Hunniford has supported a number of similar appeals since the death of her daughter Caron Keating from cancer.

She said: "I am greatly encouraged by the plans and principles for the centre. It will provide the right support for patients and families, helping them in a positive life affirming way.

"In my experience, centres such as these help patients not to fear death, and this is so important."

The Caron Keating Foundation helped to provide facilities at a similar centre at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital in the county.

The East Coast centre appeal was launched in October 2006 and has attracted wide support from the community.

Fund raising has included a 1940s style dance, a James Bond film premiere and a sponsored dog walk in the snow.