IT’S fantastic news, but the fight is not over yet. That’s message from those behind the Daily Echo-backed High Five Appeal that will transform the lives of young heart patients attending Southampton General Hospital.

Work can now begin on a dedicated unit for teenagers who need treatment for heart conditions, thanks to the appeal launched by Southampton-based Wessex Heartbeat.

Last night the charity dramatically announced it had topped the £500,000 initial target set to begin work on the unit.

The news was given during a special performance of Dancing with Choirs at the Mayflower Theatre, in itself a testimony to all those who have got behind such a worthy cause.

Wessex Heartbeat chief executive Alison Farrell paid tribute to all those who have worked to support the cause, including the Daily Echo and its readers who have rallied to the flag to help make such a worthy goal achievable. For this paper it is a fitting end to last week’s Local Newspaper Week which, as we reported, focused this year on Making a Difference, the role of the local press as a campaigning force for good.

How apt that as the week ended news came of yet another triumph that we had helped play our part in bringing about. But the most fulsome thanks must go to you our readers and all those who helped reach this magnificent total.

There is still more to do. Funds are needed to equip the new unit with items needed to help patients feel more at home. We know you will continue to be as generous as ever.