Generous Advertiser readers have already raised about £2,500 for the campaign, which aims to fund the drug sutent for Rugby cancer sufferers Colin Howe and Russ Jones.

As previously reported, both men have been refused funding for the £3,300-a-month drug by Warwickshire Primary Care Trust (PCT), which says it would not be cost-effective treatment.

But other PCTs around the country grant patients the drug, which is proven in cases to fight cancer and prolong lives,

Colin, who is battling kidney cancer, said there were bigger issues at stake.

He said: "The appeal is not just about me, it's about raising awareness. There are thousands of cancer deaths a year. But if this drug was made available, the cost would come down and lives could be prolonged or saved."

The 47-year-old and his wife Susan, of Gentian Close, Brownsover, will continue fundraising events with a sponsored walk and run around Draycote Water on Sunday, September 2 at 10.30am.

Funds from the event, sponsored by Great Central Vauxhall, go to the Colin Howe Cancer Care Appeal.

Contact Susan on (01788) 333204 or 0787 192 8643.

Sponsorship funds are available from Dorothy Perkins in High Street.
Meanwhile, 63-year-old Russ, of Elter Close, Brownsover, is currently undergoing treatment with the drug.

He is due for a scan which will assess the drug's effectiveness and the condition of his stomach cancer soon.

His wife Val said he was looking better and thanked supporters.

The couple will appear on BBC News 24 on Sunday, September 2 in a programme highlighting inequalities within the drug provsion service.
To donate to the appeal, send cheques to Ken McErlain, Rugby Advertiser Charity Event, 2 Albert Street, Rugby CV21 2RS.

Please make cheques payable to Rugby Advertiser Charity Event.