THE LAFONTAINES have become the latest Scottish band to back the Teenage Cancer Trust in Glasgow.

And the rowdy rockers paid a special visit to patients at the charity's Beatson unit.

They met young people having treatment for cancer and found out what life if like for those on the ward.

When the hospital closes and moves to the new Southern General Hospital Campus, the charity aims to open a new unit for 13 to 16-year-old cancer patients.

It is hoped the Youth Support Coordinator post funded by the charity at Yorkhill will also transfer to the new unit.

These specialist members of staff make a difference to young patients' quality of life by helping them share their experiences and talk about their fears.

They aim to keep teenagers active, encourage them to socialise and keep them connected with each other.

Siobhan O'Hara, fundraising manager for Teenage Cancer Trust, said: "Everyone's had a great time today, and we're so grateful to the band for visiting.

"We know how generous people are in the West of Scotland and we're really hoping they get behind us and help us build this new unit."

The state-of-the-art new unit will complement the charity's existing services at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, which provides care for 17 to 24-year-olds.

It is hoped that it will have six single inpatient bedrooms with en suite bathrooms.

Unlike 'ordinary' hospital wards, it will have a social area that includes a TV and games area as well as chill out zone and quiet area.

There will also be computers with access to wifi, a drinks and dining area, and a kitchen where young people and their families can prepare meals.

The LaFontaines are backing a bid to raise £500,000 in the West of Scotland to replace the Trust's current specialist unit in Yorkhill.

The band's singer, Kerr Okan, said, "We're all from Motherwell and have grown up in this area, so we're really honoured to be able to come in and meet some of the amazing young people here and hear what they've been going through.

"Everyone should get behind Teenage Cancer Trust's appeal so they can keep on helping young people fight cancer. Text GLA15 to donate £5 today."

catriona.stewart@eveningtimes.co.uk