CELEBRITIES have added their backing to the fight for a new cancer centre in Bolton.

Campaigners are calling for an information and support facility and have more than 3,000 signatures on a petition.

They now have the backing of Bolton comedian Dave Spikey and radio presenter Mark Radcliffe.

Macmillan Cancer Support was initially going to fund the centre, which would have been based at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

NHS Bolton, the local primary care trust, would then have picked up the cost.

But the plans were dealt a blow when the PCT said it could play no part in the scheme, preferring to focus on prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Bolton Cancer Patients and Carers Consultative Group launched a campaign to save the proposals.

Mr Spikey said: “A lot of thought has gone in to what should be included.

“I think this is a brilliant idea and would urge the people of my hometown to join me in pledging their support.”

Mr Radcliffe added: “This centre proposes to bring together so much under the one roof. It will provide an invaluable source of help and support.

“I hope fellow Boltonians will speak out in favour of this.”

The group want a centre to provide information, from practical advice to emotional support; complementary therapies and wig fitting.

Karen Elliott, chairman of the group, said: “We are delighted to have received these messages. It means a lot to us that local celebrities are willing to support our cause.”

NHS Bolton has stressed information is being improved, such as the introduction of “information prescriptions”, which is tailored advice for cancer patients.

A spokesman said: “Our policy is to look at any petition we receive and consider if any action needs to be taken.

“As yet, we have not received any about the centre.

“We looked at the proposals on two occasions and, after careful consideration, decided our priority must be prevention, diagnosis and treatment.”

To sign up to the petition, contact 01204 595562 or email signfor acentre@yahoo.co.uk.