The Boudicca Breast Cancer Appeal at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital has now smashed the £400,000 milestone.

The appeal to create a one-stop shop where patients can have the necessary tests and see their consultant in one appointment is now more than half way to the £800,000 target. 

The appeal received a fantastic boost on Thursday when representatives of the five Rotary Clubs of Norwich, the Desira Group and East Bilney Coachworks presented the N&N Hospitals Charity with £60,000 raised over the past year.

Guests from Desira, East Bilney Coachworks and Rotary groups in Norwich see some of the equipment they have helped purchase.

The new breast cancer unit is already taking shape, including the installation of a Stereotactic mammography system which uses low-dose x-rays to help locate a breast abnormality and remove a tissue and is less invasive than surgical biopsy.

Dr Arne Juette, Director of Breast Imaging, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the support of the community, from individuals to groups and businesses.

“We had no idea when the appeal was launched just how everyone would take it to their hearts and do so much to help create the new unit for patients.

“It means so much to the team here to have support like this.”

Paul Constable, speaking on behalf of the Rotary Clubs of Norwich, said: “We attended the launch of the Boudicca Appeal in 2018 and were inspired by the former patients and their family members, and the enthusiasm and strength of purpose of the breast cancer team.

“After this, Rotary in Norwich made the Boudicca Appeal their main charity for 2019. Not only did it galvanize the five clubs in Norwich, we also gained support from other clubs in Norfolk.

“Over the past 12 months, we have held a number of events including the Upton Walk, the Craft Fair in Chapelfield Gardens, car raffle, quiz nights, charity ball and art auction, Christmas Tree Festival at Peter Mancroft Church and the Colin Thackery concerts, raising a total of £60,000.

“Thanks go to the Rotary Clubs of Norwich, including Marchesi, Centenary, St Edmunds, Blackfriars and Norwich, also Diss and District, Reepham and District, Wroxham Bure Valley, Wymondham and Wymondham Satellite Clubs, Taylor Wimpey, and the Desira Group and East Bilney Coachworks which donated the car to be raffled.”

The Rotary Clubs of Norwich are continuing to support the appeal which has also received the backing of many individuals, groups and businesses, including Page Bros, Tiger Eye Consulting, Pure Gym, The Forum in Norwich, Norfolk Snowsports Club in Trowse and Old Hall Farm in Woodton.

To find out how you can get involved with the appeal, please contact the N&N Hospitals Charity on 01603 287107 or visit www.nnhospitalscharity.org.uk or donate directly at www.justgiving.com/campaign/boudicca