CUMBRIAN dignitaries joined the friends and supporters of a much-loved cancer charity to celebrate the official opening of its newly enhanced therapy centre.

Marking a major milestone in the CancerCare Silver Jubilee Appeal, Susan Thornely, the high sheriff of Cumbria, formally opened the improved and extended Lakes Centre in Kendal on Saturday.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP, Tim Farron, conservative parliamentary candidate Gareth McKeever and a host of dedicated volunteers, local businesspeople and CancerCare staff were also present to toast the charity’s success.

Robert Webb, chairman of the trustees at CancerCare, said the improvements would enable the charity to cope with increased demand, with the number of people affected by cancer expected to increase from one in three to one in two during the next ten to 15 years.

He praised everyone who had supported the appeal, adding: “The fact we have reached this major milestone is testament to the generosity of local people and how much they value the work of CancerCare.”

The toast was preceded by a celebratory lunch and followed by a tour of the new facilities, which include a dedicated children and young person’s unit, purpose built woodwork room and a light and spacious arts and craft area.

CancerCare provides free support, counselling and therapeutic services to people affected by cancer in South Lakeland and North Lancashire.

Its £2.1 million Silver Jubilee Appeal captured the heart of the region and, although the Kendal centre is now complete, funds are needed to improve Sylnedales, the charity’s headquarters in Lancaster.