A TEENAGER who lost both parents to cancer opened a new support centre today, and spoke of his gratitude to the charity which runs it.

Jack Salkeld was just one when his mother died of breast cancer, while his father, Bryan, lost his battle with bowel cancer last year, aged 63.

Fifteen-year-old Jack officially opened the Macmillan Information and Support Centre at the University Hospital of North Durham today. (Friday, September 23)

Jack, who lives near Durham, said: “It was hard when my Dad was ill, they didn’t think he would have long but he lived for 19 months.

“He was a big man, six foot five at least, but cancer made him very weak.

“We had Macmillan nurses in the house to help him and the family and I'm really grateful for that."

Jack said that before his father deteriorated, the family went on a last holiday together to Turkey and the Macmillan nurses divided up all his medication so he knew what he needed each day.

“By doing that, they helped make that holiday possible really," said Jack. "I've got a lot of memories from that.

“It was such a hard time as two uncles and my grandma all died not long after. Now, I just want to make my Dad proud.”

Jack has planned a presentation about Macmillan and his experiences of cancer to give to his fellow pupils at Windlestone School, near Spennymoor.

He has already won numerous school awards for his work, including a platinum accolade for high achieving pupils.

Outside of school, Jack has ambitions of becoming a firefighter and is a member of a Young Firefighters Scheme based in County Durham.

The centre he opened today has been provided by Macmillan Cancer Support and County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.

Based within the hospital, close to the main outpatients department, it offers a free, drop-in service for anyone with questions about cancer.

Dawn Graham, who works for Macmillan, said: “Cancer can leave people facing many challenges, from coping with care to seeking help with finances.

“This new centre provides people with access to free cancer information and a listening ear.

“It’s for anyone, patients, carers and relatives, and no appointment is necessary.

“We hope it will be a great resource for many people, and we’re delighted Jack has officially opened it.”

The centre is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, excluding Bank Holidays, and can be reached on 0191 3332815 or via email cdda-tr.macmillancddft@nhs.net