More than £7 million is to be invested in improving treatment for cancer sufferers in Sussex.

The Sussex Oncology Centre, based at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, will undergo a high-tech refurbishment.

Three £1 million linear accelerators - X-ray machines which direct radioactive beams into deep-rooted tumours - are to be installed.

Brighton Health Care NHS Trust is to put £7 million into the project.

The Sussex Cancer Fund for Treatment and Research charity has already given more than £750,000 to build and furnish an extension to the centre.

Dr George Deutsch, lead consultant at the centre, said: "I am delighted to see the continued development of more modern cancer services.

"This funding will help ensure we can provide the most up-to-date treatment at the centre and further enhance the environment for our patients."

The layout of the extended oncology centre has been designed to offer patients a more user-friendly environment.

Rather than undressing behind screens, they will have individual rooms to change in before examination by consultants.

Kath Davis, administrator of the Sussex Cancer Fund for Treatment and Research, said: "This is all about the quality of care. It makes the department more comfortable for staff and patients.

"That, in turn, makes everyone happier and improves the services provided."

The extension, which will have a ground-floor clinic area and an extra physics room where treatment levels can be worked out, is set to open in mid-August.