OUR Accelerator Appeal has moved up a gear by reaching an impressive milestone less than six weeks after launching the pioneering campaign.

A �10,000 gift from an anonymous donor means we are more than a quarter of the way to our �100,000 target for a fifth specialist radiotherapy machine for the Royal Berkshire Hospital's Berkshire Cancer Centre.

The appeal has raised �25,582 so far towards a �1m Elekta Compact - the first of its kind in Britain - which is a smaller version of the hospital's Linear Accelerators (Linacs) using highly accurate radiotherapy beams to destroy cancerous cells.

Mark Goff, director of the Royal Berks Charity, said: "It was totally unexpected and a wonderful surprise and puts us well on the way to achieving our target."

He is also urging people to get organising to raise cash for the Accelerator Appeal, arranging anything from fetes and fun days, charity walks, runs and bike rides. He said: "With spring just around the corner now is the time for everyone to consider doing something extra for this appeal. Every donation - no matter how small - is essential if we are to reach our target."

To donate contact 0118 322 6969 or email charity@royalberkshire.nhs.uk

Donors can also text RBCL05 to 70070 followed by any amount from �1 to �10, and ticking the gift aid box if applicable.

People can also send cheques addressed to 'The Royal Berks Charity Accelerator Fund' to Accelerator Appeal Royal Berks Charity, FREEPOST RLRJ-XCXE-XCZH, Royal Berkshire Hospital, London Road, Reading RG1 5AN.