The Waterside Cancer Support Centre has received both praise and a generous donation for £600.

James Binns, District Councillor for Dibden Purlieu and Butts Ash, made the donation to Wessex Cancer Trust (WCT) in thanks for the ongoing support which his father is receiving, as well as many of his constituents.

Warren Binns, 73, a former parish councillor and well known in the area, is living with prostate cancer, which has returned following 12 years in remission. He travels to the Waterside Cancer Support Centre, which is at The Grove, St John’s Street, Hythe, using his bus pass several times a month.

Currently studying for a Masters degree in Political Science at University College London, James said the local support was invaluable to his father and the wider family unit.

“I would like to thank all the staff who have, and continue, to make Waterside Cancer Support Centre as successful as it is,” said James.

“So many of us are affected by cancer, whether as individuals or our loved ones. It can be hard to deal with emotionally, mentally and indeed physically.

“Fortunately for our community we have your organisation to turn to, whether for counselling, therapy or just a friendly face to speak to – and for some people, walking through the door is a considerable task on its own.

“My father knows everyone there by name. The opportunity talk to someone has made a big difference to his life and he looks forward to his visits. 

“Waterside Cancer Support Centre provides an exemplary service that is invaluable to our residents. Whenever I have visited, I have found the volunteers and staff to be extremely friendly and welcoming. 

“The atmosphere is not one of gloom, but of hope and optimism, which is so important to those living with, or affected by, cancer.”

Dr Julian Lewis, MP for New Forest East, also asked James to forward his thanks for the Centre’s valued work.

WCT is the only regional cancer charity that supports people with all types of cancer throughout Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, the Isle of Wight and Channel Islands.

Councillor Binns (centre) with his father and several volunteers of WCT.