HAMPSHIRE wildlife expert Chris Packham has come under fire for urging people to stop chasing cancer cures and instead focus on wildlife.

The outspoken Southampton-born naturalist said that humans need to stop prioritising themselves over the environment.

His outburst has sparked criticism from cancer charities who have highlighted how 50 per cent of cancer patients now survive thanks to research into life-saving treatments and cures.

The Springwatch presenter called on wealthy philanthropists to stop ploughing their money into human health and move towards funding environmental causes.

He said: “We need to stop chasing cures for cancer and things like that and start realising that the health of the planet goes beyond the health of human beings.”

Sara Osborne, from Cancer Research UK said that more than 300,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year and research is vital for their survival.

She added: “Far too many still lose their lives prematurely to this devastating disease so it’s vital that the public continue to support the charity’s research which is entirely funded by their generosity.”