A WORLD leading cancer research centre in Southampton is now another step closer.

The groundbreaking £25 million Centre for Cancer Immunology will see the world’s best cancer scientists and researchers come together under one roof, and the fundraising campaign now has just £1 million to go before it becomes a reality.

Based at Southampton General Hospital, the centre will expand clinical trials and develop lifesaving drugs in the battle to find a cure for cancer.

In 2015, the University of Southampton launched the £25 million campaign to build the centre, which today has passed the £24 million mark.

The money has come entirely through donations and community fundraising.

Professor Tim Elliot, director of the centre, said: “We are thrilled to have reached the mark and we are hugely grateful to everyone who has contributed so far.

“It has taken a lot of hard work by a lot of people to reach this brilliant milestone.

“Although we still have some way to go, it is very exciting to be within touching distance of our new centre being a reality.”

Expected to open next year, the centre specialises in immunology treatment, which involves supercharging the body’s natural defences to find and destroy cancer.

Associate director of development, Katherine De Retuerto, who has led the campaign from the beginning, said: “We should feel proud to have this centre looking for a cure for cancer on our doorstep. I am from Romsey so this is a local cause close to my heart.

“The last million is the funds for the cutting edge equipment that will save lives and we are so grateful to everyone.”