MAURICE Newbolt understands cancer. He has survived it. His wife and daughter did not.

Maurice, an active grandfather of three, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2002.

In 2003, he underwent 20 sessions of radiotherapy, and seven years later was given the all clear .

But, eight years ago, his wife , Susan, died from liver cancer .

Three years ago, his daughter , Debra, died from cancer, which wa s in her pancreas, ovaries and liver. She was 44.

Maurice, 74, understands better than anyone the importance of maintaining a centre of excellence for treating cancer .

He also understands the need for practical support and now serves a s both the secretary and treasurer of the North East Essex Urology Cancer Support Group .

It meets each month to provide information and support to patients suffering from prostate, liver, bladder, testicular and penile cancer. It is also there for the families and the friends, who also need support.

To Maurice, the suggestion of moving urology cancer surgery from Colchester is nonsensical.

He said: “We have one of the best radiotherapy units in the countr y and money is being raised to bring cancer services together in one centre of excellence at the hospital.

“So, why then would you take awa y any aspect from that?

“Continuity of care is important.

At the moment, there is joined-up work between the surgeon and the oncologist.

“Patients have their diagnosis and their treatment here. To try to mak e them go all the way to Southend for surgery, where is the sense in that?”

Maurice, who lives in Lexden, is a retired engineering manager with Essex Fire and Rescue Service and received an MBE in 1998 for his services to the service.

He will fight tooth and nail to keep urology cancer surgery in Colchester .

He said: “We haveagreat service here. We do not want to lose it." ! For more information on the support group, call 01206 742964, or find North East Essex Urology Cancer Support Group on Facebook.

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