IT is coming up to four years since the campaign to build a state-of-the-art cancer centre was first launched - but the fundraising goal is now finally in sight.

A target of £3.25 million was set to cover the costs of a new chemotherapy suite, with potential to facilitate other cancer services, a neighbouring wellbeing centre and support services.

It was a challenge for everyone at the hospital and there was no way of predicting whether such a huge amount of support and awareness could be generated.

However, thanks to an incredibly generous donor, a cash injection of £1million, and support from fundraisers, the dream is set to become a reality.

During the campaign, which first started in 2014 and has been supported throughout by the Gazette, the anonymous donor pledged to match the funding up to £1 million if the Colchester Hospitals Charity met its goal.

With this extra cash, the hospital is edging ever closer to the target.

This is not the end, however, as about £450,000 is still needed to cover the costs of the building.

Another generous donor has agreed to fully fund the unique wellness centre but the chemotherapy suite is still in need of financial support.

Funds will also be needed to pay for everything inside the building, including equipment and furniture.

But with money in the bank it is hoped work on the new cancer centre will start in a matter of months.

A provisional date has been set for September and it is hoped the new build will be completed next year.

There's still time to donate!

WE are not finished yet! Thousands of pounds are still needed to cover the cost of furniture and equipment at the new cancer centre, to make it sustainable for as long as possible.

Any donations will still be welcome, and here is how you can get involved.

To donate to the Gazettebacked appeal, text Gaze11 £10 to 70070, or another amount. Visit www.cohoc.org.uk for more information about the campaign and how to support it.

Some events taking place this year include the annual Santa Run in December, Invasion Colchester, the annual Starlight Walk and many other fundraisers organised by the charity’s community groups.

There are community groups in Mersea, Manningtree, Tiptree, Coggeshall and Wivenhoe which all raise money for the Cancer Centre Campaign.

To read the full 8-page supplement pick up a copy of today's Gazette.