A group which tirelessly campaigned for a breast unit at Basildon Hospital has received a prestigious award.

Bosom Friends was presented with a special certificate from the MPs' all party committee on breast cancer in recognition of its hard work.

The group began fighting for a designated breast unit last September by sending out thousands of letters to women in shops, factories, clubs and just about every other organisation in the area.

Hundreds of women responded by signing the letter and sending it on to Basildon Hospital. And in January it was announced that building work on a new breast unit for Basildon would start later this year.

Marion Crane, who has herself beaten breast cancer and is secretary of Bosom Friends, said: "We are very proud to get this certificate and it is evidence that people can make a difference."

Making a difference - MP Angela Smith presents the award to secretary of Bosom Friends Marion Crane

Picture: ANDY PALMER

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