Acknowledging the achievements of Cancer Research UK

Twenty years of battling to end the misery inflicted on cancer sufferers has been recognised by a local MP.

Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, has joined many other people in acknowledging the achievements of Cancer Research UK over two decades.

Mr Madders, formerly Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, attended a World Cancer Day event at Westminster. Taking place on the February 4 each year, World Cancer Day is an international initiative which inspires individuals and communities to unite against the disease.

Mr Madders met with researchers about the life-saving work taking place in laboratories across the UK, along with the charity’s volunteer ambassadors who share their experiences of cancer to help inspire and inform the decision-makers who can make a real difference to how the disease is tackled in the UK.

World Cancer Day also saw the end of Cancer Research UK’s 20^th anniversary year. The charity has been holding events over the last 12 months to celebrate the progress made in beating cancer, thanks to the long-term dedication of supporters and campaigners.

“We’ve come a long way in the fight against cancer, but there’s so much further to go,” said Mr Madders.

“The research charities such as Cancer Research UK fund is vital to help unlock new and better ways to beat the disease, but it’s also crucial that politicians work together to ensure the patients of today and tomorrow have the best possible chance of survival.”

Among calls to help support patients and research, Cancer Research UK is urging the UK Government to use the Spring Budget to ensure there is real investment in reducing smoking rates and to train and recruit the NHS workforce needed for future generations.

Head of Public Affairs at Cancer Research UK, Shaun Walsh, says the support of parliamentarians is key to help transform the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer across the UK.

He said: “The theme of World Cancer Day this year is closing the care gap and it’s never resonated more loudly, because beating cancer means beating it for everyone.

“Whether it’s helping to prevent four in 10 cancers by backing measures such as our #SmokefreeUK campaign, or ensuring Governments have dedicated, long-term plans for tackling cancer, politicians can make a big difference – days like this are important reminders we all need to work together to beat cancer.”