A campaign to build a cancer care centre has raised more than £1.3 million in its first year.

The £3.7 million appeal is being run by Macmillan Cancer Support and supported by The Argus.

Organisers say they are delighted with the results so far but warn the target is still a long way off.

They are hoping to start building work on the project next year.

The centre would be based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton and run by the charity in partnership with the Sussex Cancer Fund and Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust.

The aim is to provide a wide range of services in a non-clinical environment, including welfare benefits advice and counselling services.

It will also offer complementary therapies, a hair and wig service, a cafe, dietary advice and self-help and support groups.

The centre can be used by people with cancer and their families.

Macmillan fundraising manager for Sussex, Rob Moon, said: “From when we launched on June 28 last year, we have had amazing support from people from all over Sussex, who have been involved in many different ways.

“This has ranged from fundraising to spreading the word about the appeal.

“We are doing fantastically well but we still have a way to go before the build begins.

“We still need the support of the community to ensure that we are able to reach the target.”

For more information, call the Macmillan Sussex fundraising office on 01273 746601 or email eastsussex@macmillan.org.uk.