A CANCER support hub has opened at a nearby hospital and will provide Saturday services for those with a diagnosis of the disease.

Helen Rollason Cancer Charity (HRCC) opened the hub at Braintree Community Hospital on April 22.

The hub runs on three out of four Saturdays a month from 9am to 1pm and offers complementary therapies, including aromatherapy and massage, to those affected by cancer.

Pat Hume, support centre development manager for HRCC, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside mid Essex hospitals to extend our services into the Braintree area.

“The new hub features a comfortable and relaxing treatment room and is ideal for clients living in and around the Braintree region or those who would like a Saturday appointment.

“As a charity, we are working hard to expand our services to wider regions and have recently opened a hub at Spire Specialist Care Centre in Great Baddow, and we will be making more announcements in the coming months.”

The Helen Rollason Cancer Charity works to champion quality of life for everyone living with or affected by cancer through the provision of free access support centres, complementary therapies, information and advice and supporting clinical trials.

Professor Chris Green, chairman of the Friends of Braintree Community Hospital, said: “It’s a very welcome move because Saturdays are quiet at the hospital.

“It’s an inventive use of space by an organisation that clearly is appreciated by many many people and I am glad they are coming to Braintree.”

Bookings can be made via the HRCC Centre at Rochelle House on 01245 463633.