A hospital has launched a £3 million appeal to open a cancer unit.

The unit at St Richard's Hospital in Chichester will be for the thousands of day patients who have to visit every week.

A dedicated unit will bring all cancer services under one roof and mean tumours will be seen, diagnosed and treated more quickly. It will also act as an information centre for patients, relatives and carers.

Hospital chief executive Robert Lapraik said: "More than one in three people will develop cancer at some point. Few people escape coming into contact with the disease, either through personal experience or through that of a friend or relative.

"It is vital St Richard's is able to provide care and treatment in the very best way it can, in the best environment."

Charitable trusts, individuals and other organisations have already started donating to the appeal and more than £500,000 has been raised. The appeal is backed by film and TV actor Joe McGann.

The appeal office can be contacted on 01243 831799 or by email at ctrust@rws-tr.nhs.uk. Donations can be sent to Cancer Day Unit Appeal, St Richard's Hospital Charitable Trust, Spitalfield Lane, Chichester, PO19 6SE.