£15,000 raised by cancer survivor

Lorna Ponti (right) handed £15,000 over to hospital representatives

A breast cancer survivor has handed over a £15,000 cheque towards a hospital's fund-raising campaign for digital mammography equipment.

Lorna Ponti, who lives in north Surrey, began raising money for cancer care and research after undergoing extensive treatment herself in 2005.

She held a Lunch for Life charity event at the Wentworth Club, near Virginia Water, which made a total of £24,000.

Ms Ponti gave the remaining £9,000 to Cancer Research UK.

It was during her treatment that she learnt from her surgeon, Sunita Shrotria, about plans for new digital equipment at the Breast Care Unit of St Peter's Hospital, Chertsey.

£150,000 target

Speaking after the £15,000 cheque presentation, Ms Shrotria said: "This is a magnificent amount and we are very grateful.

"People are very aware of local needs and want to support the unit. We aim to purchase digital mammography equipment for use in the early diagnosis of cancer."

A total of £35,000 has now been raised towards the appeal's £150,000 target.

The Lunch for Life saw about 240 guests taking part in an auction, while broadcaster Gloria Hunniford spoke to the audience about her daughter, Caron Keating, who died of breast cancer in 2004.