A HOSPITAL campaigner has sent a rallying call to the people of South Lakeland to join him on a march through Kendal on Saturday, to show support for a new cancer unit.

MP Tim Farron is setting off on a thigh-busting 40 mile trek from Preston to Kendal on Friday and is hoping to be joined by thousands of supporters when he arrives in the auld grey town the following day to complete the final leg of his walk to Westmorland General Hospital.

The aim of the epic journey, which will see him meandering along the A6 for around 24 hours, is to show support for a £15 million cancer unit, which health bosses want to build in south Cumbria.

Once he arrives at the Kendal hospital, he will hand over a petition signed by more than 7,000 residents asking for it to be built at the Westmorland General site - a move that he believes will “transform” the lives of cancer patients and their families, who have to endure long distances for life-saving care.

“Many people have come forward with stories about the gruelling journeys they have to make to Preston for cancer treatment and I am doing this walk to highlight that distance,” said the MP, who has written to everyone who signed the petition, urging them to join the march.

“Local health officials have always made it clear that public support will be vital if we are to achieve our aim and get a cancer treatment unit in Kendal so I am urging everyone to join me on the final leg of my walk.”

Mr Farron will visit medics at the Rosemere cancer unit at the Royal Preston Hospital on Friday morning before setting off to Kirkbie Kendal School in Kendal, where he expects to arrive at 10am on Saturday.

Supporters are asked to meet on the playing fields next to the school before joining him on the walk along Burton Road to WGH.