THE success of the Macmillan Cancer Relief County Durham Appeal means that the first of two new Macmillan consultants has been appointed ahead of schedule.

Dr Jenny Skinner, a specialist in the care of cancer patients, started work at the Butterwick Hospice, in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, on April 1.

The dream of dramatically improving palliative care for cancer patients and their families in County Durham is close to becoming reality because of her appointment.

Until the new consultant took up her post, Durham was believed to be the only county in England which did not have a palliative care consultant of its own.

Once the Macmillan target of £600,000 has been hit, it is expected that County Durham will have two Macmillan-sponsored consultants, backed by an enlarged team of specialist nurses.

The second consultant, Dr Colette Hawkins, is expected to be based in the northern half of the county.

Eventually, the NHS is expected to take over the funding of palliative care provided by the two consultants.

Caroline Peacock, a fundraiser for the Macmillan County Durham appeal, said: "The early appointment of our first consultant reflects the remarkable success of our appeal.

"We are only halfway through in terms of how long we've been fundraising, but we have already raised more than £320,0000."

Mrs Peacock said she wanted to thank everyone who had supported and donated money to the Macmillan County Durham appeal, which is backed by The Northern Echo.

"This is not down to rich individuals who have written us large cheques, but the many ordinary people who have raised money for our cause," said Mrs Peacock.

* To support the Macmillan County Durham appeal, call 0191-378 1188.