THE digital mammography appeal has been boosted by £5,000 donation from the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust.

The charity works to improve the services to patients and staff of the cancer unit at Dorset County Hospital.

Chairman of the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust, Dr David Evans said: “This is a really good cause which will make a difference to women and men across the county. Supporting the purchase of this equipment will mean the people of Dorset get a faster diagnosis of breast cancer and therefore faster access to treatment. “It’s a really important service for the hospital to offer, and something our committee unanimously agreed to fund.”

The hospital’s chief executive Jean O’Callaghan accepted the donation on behalf of the appeal at a hospital AGM this week.

She said: “We are thrilled at the generosity of the charity. Their support for the hospital, its patients and our staff, is so welcome and will make a real difference to us.

“Every pound will go towards the purchase and upkeep of this vital piece of equipment and we are getting ever closer to our half million pound target.”

Wendy Nightingale, chairman of the appeal, added: “I would like to join Jean in thanking Dr Evans and the whole committee for choosing to donate their funds to us.”

• HOW TO DONATE: There are collection tins around the hospital or money can be paid in to the hospital’s cashiers office by the main entrance. cheques can be sent to the DCH Charitable Fund (digital mammography) at the fundraising office at DCH Trust HQ, Williams Avenue, Dorchester DT1 2JY or paid in to Barclays in Dorchester.

WHAT'S ON: May 21 – Bridport street market collection, all day. May 29 – The Dorchester Piano Trio at the Dorset County Museum at 3pm. Tickets £8 on the door.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED: If you would like to get involved there are lots of fundraising tips online at boostdch.co.uk including a downloadable charity collection box.

• Have you been affected by breast cancer? As part of the publicity for the campaign we would like to highlight the stories from people in our area who have been affected by breast cancer. Or have you been fundraising for the appeal? If you have a story to tell call Miriam Phillips on 01305 830995 or email miriam.phillips @dorstecho.co.uk