Brain tumour research continues thanks to donation

19 December 2016

UCLan collaborating with Lancashire Teaching Hospitals on neuro-oncology research

Researchers from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals are continuing their brain tumour work thanks to a large donation from a local charity.

BK’s Heroes has given £10,000 to the department of neurosurgery at the Royal Preston Hospital and UCLan to foster collaborative research links for neuro-oncology research.

The charity was the vision of Ben King who sadly passed away in February this year. Ben’s aim was to raise money and awareness of brain and kidney diseases.  His parents, Fiona and Dave, have continued Ben’s vision and they attended the Medical Education Centre, in Preston, to present the cheque.

"When we started the research fund at the Royal Preston Hospital our vision was to bridge the gap between basic science at the University, clinical work and community, bringing them all together under one roof for the benefit of our patients."

Dr Taha Lilo, a clinical research fellow in brain tumour research, said: “This donation will go towards continuing research efforts at our department and the University of Central Lancashire to allow us to expand the boundaries in understanding brain tumours which will ultimately lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment in the future.”

Neuro-oncology Professor Charles Davis, who is also a UCLan Honorary Fellow, said: “When we started the research fund at the Royal Preston Hospital our vision was to bridge the gap between basic science at the University, clinical work and community, bringing them all together under one roof for the benefit of our patients.

“We are proud of our research which can only continue with the generosity of charities like BK’S Heroes who made a vital contribution.”

UCLan’s Head of Biosciences Professor Francis Martin is involved with the collaborative research and he attended the event to represent the University. The Brain Tumour North West member, whose major research interests are in the development of pioneering bio-imaging technologies for better screening and diagnosis, added: “Fundraising efforts such as this play a significant role in supporting local research and development.”