A CAMPAIGN to send a Spennymoor woman to Mexico for specialist cancer treatment is nearing its target.

A year ago today 46-year-old Pamela Aston, well known in the town as Pam Ellis, was told the breast cancer she thought she had defeated had spread to her liver.

Because the treatment she can receive in Britain is limited, in June Ms Aston, her friends and family launched The Pam Aston Flight For Life campaign to raise £20,000 for Issels treatment at the Oasis of Hope Hospital, in Tijuana, Mexico.

Issels therapy combines alternative medicine with conventional treatment. The hospital claims to improve the life expectancy of patients by up to 45 years.

With £15,000 donated so far, and more money pledged, Ms Aston, who works at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, is hoping to travel to Mexico next month.

She said: "I cannot thank people enough, it is very encouraging and helps keep me well. People have been so supportive and generous."

To help the appeal call Ms Aston on 07941 896009. The campaign has also set up an account at the Spennymoor branch of Barclays bank.