SWINDON’S dreams of having its very own radiotherapy unit in the town, so patients don’t have to make the 40-mile trip to Oxford, has taken a step closer after a one-day musical spectacular.

On Sunday, urology-oncology nurse specialist Samantha Richards brought together some of the finest musical talent in the region to raise money for the Brighter Futures Appeal in aid of the Swindon radiotherapy unit.

Rock 4 Radiotherapy was held at Swindon Rugby Club with a family day packed with activities, stalls and some of the best bands around sharing the stage in order to raise money for the cause.

Among the line-up were No Middle Ground, Aiden Page, Post 12 and Capela before Alter Chaos closed the evening.

Sam said that after 18 hours on her feet she was exhausted: “I couldn’t have done it without my partner Jon and my great team of volunteers; they all gave up family time to support the day. I felt emotional at times, just completely overwhelmed by the day. I still can’t believe how it grew in a matter of weeks. I am so proud of Swindon and humbled by the kindness and many donations.”

The funds raised on the day are still being tallied up, but the raffle alone raised around £800.

Sam added: “Seeing people have a great time was one of the real highlights of the day, as well as listening to such fab bands.

“Having Dr David Cole, clinical oncology consultant, speak about what the radiotherapy unit will mean for the people of Swindon was very well received and he was quite rightly applauded for all his hard work to cancer services.

“The most emotional was seeing the gorgeous Emma Wilson have her head shaved. Emma is a breast cancer survivor, but it sadly wasn’t the case for her mum.

“Swindon embraced the day. It is hard to describe how I feel: proud, humbled and emotional because I know what a difference this will make to the people of Swindon. My passion is for cancer services and to make a difference. The generous people of Swindon should feel proud as they made a difference.

“I would like to thank everyone, my amazing team of volunteers, the bands, all those who baked many cakes, gave raffle prizes and of course the people of Swindon who supported the day. Without them this never would have happened.

Bring on next year!”

Steve Hopkins – who plays bass in band Alter Chaos – said: “It was fantastic, a great event and Sam should be as proud as punch to have pulled this event together; it was hard work and she worked tirelessly.

We are glad we could help such a great cause.”