BREAST cancer patients who have had reconstructive surgery can soon opt to have a finishing touch to their treatment - thanks to the generosity of a support group.

Pansies Breast Cancer Support Group has provided Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital's plastic and reconstructive surgery department with the £3,000 needed to buy a nipple tattoo machine.

Now for the first time, doctors will be able to tattoo a nipple on to the new breast of a patient who has had reconstructive surgery, following mastectomy.

The machine, which is operated by a foot pedal, has a handset for the two different types of needle used to push the tattoo pigment - of a similar consistency to children's poster paint - into the breast. The process is essentially the same as that followed by a commercial tattooist.

Consultant in plastic and reconstruction surgery Martin Coady said: "Obviously, the machine costs a lot more than those used by commercial tattooists, as it has to meet hospital requirements.

"The nipple tattoo procedure is very simple, can be done as an outpatient, but does require a little artistic ability on the part of the operator.

"As it is a surface tattoo, there is no harm to implants sometimes used for breast reconstruction. The whole procedure would take about half to three- quarters of an hour."

Isobel Wilson founded the Pansies, in Hartlepool, six years ago after she had breast cancer.

The group meets every Monday at the Grand Hotel, in Hartlepool, from 10am to noon.

Over the years, members have tirelessly fundraised and will hold a fashion show at the Mayfair Centre, in Hartlepool, on September 23.

"It can really mark the end of an era for someone as it helps them to feel complete again and that is wonderful," said Mrs Wilson.