A SECOND cancer unit for Glasgow teenagers is expected to be given the go ahead just months after a flagship centre opened at the world-renowned Beatson.

Campaigners are in talks with health bosses and are hopeful a unit will be created at Yorkhill.

Teenage Cancer Trust volunteers hope the plan will be approved in weeks, then the task of raising the £700,000 needed to allow the centre for 13 to 16-year- olds to open by 2009 will begin.

In May 2007, TCT patron Roger Daltrey - lead singer of rock legends The Who - launched the first unit for teenage cancer patients at Glasgow's Beatson.

Jill MacRae, of the TCT in Glasgow, said she was "very hopeful" a second unit would be formed at Yorkhill.

She added: "We feel there is a gap in the 13 to 16-year age group which has the right environment for young people with cancer.

"They are at an in-between stage too old for a kids' ward but too young for an adult ward.

"We hope to have the second unit running by the end of the year and will embark on a huge drive to raise the £700,000 needed."

The existing six-bed unit at the Beatson was built in the style of a teenager's bedroom, with a flat-screen TV and a games console.

Youngsters have internet access and the day room has panoramic views across Glasgow and a cafe-style space.

The TCT are also launching the West of Scotland Action Group to attract members.

Jill said: "This will be a really big year and we hope to expand across the West of Scotland."

Teen cancer sufferer Allister Boyd, 19, has already signed up. Allister, from Ayr, said: "I am delighted to be involved and think the TCT is doing a great job.

"I was 16 when I was diagnosed with a brain tumour and was in an adult ward, but I think the dedicated units are a great asset.

"I was in sixth year at school when I was getting treatment and am now in remission.

"I'm now in first year at Glasgow Caledonian University so I am living proof you can get through."

Anyone interested in joining the Action Group should e-mail jillmacrae@teenagecancertrust .org