GLASGOW has a new cancer research centre following a mammoth £10million fundraising drive.

Construction on the new Beatson Translational Research Centre at Glasgow University's Garscube Campus in Bearsden is now complete.

Doctors and researchers say the hi-tech facility will help convert basic cancer research into real improvements in patients' lives.

It will specialise in the cancers that cause the most deaths in Scotland, such as breast, prostate and ovarian, smoking related and gastrointestinal.

It will bring together more than 150 research scientists from all over the world, providing cancer services to more than 60% of the population of Scotland.

It is due to open in Spring next year.

The centre was created as a result of the Beatson Pebble Appeal campaign to raise £10m.

Professor Jeff Evans, Director of the Institute of Cancer Sciences at the University of Glasgow, said: "This is a very exciting time for cancer research in Glasgow, this building is the final piece in the jigsaw that brings together outstanding laboratory science and clinical medicine which will make a real impact in patients lives in the future, both in Glasgow and beyond."

Lynne Murray, who has helped raise almost £300,000 for the new centre, said: "It is wonderful to see the new building completed. We have raised funds over the past six years through a variety of events such as balls, sponsored walks, abseils and zip slides.

"We will continue to fundraise for the Beatson Pebble Appeal to support the vital work of the scientists who will work in this new building in their quest for new treatments for cancer in the hope we can ultimately eliminate this terrible disease."

Professor Anna Dominiczak, head of the university's College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences said: "The Beatson Translational Cancer Research Centre is the final piece of the overarching strategy for cancer research and care in Glasgow.

"The centre will bring together 150 scientists from around the world and enable us to more quickly transform our cancer research into cancer treatments that will benefit patients in Glasgow, the West of Scotland and beyond."

The Centre will be headed by Professor Andrew Biankin who will also take up the role of the Chair of Surgery in College early next year.

The Beatson Pebble Appeal continues to welcome donations on 0141 330 3000 or at www.beatsonpebbleappeal.org

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk