HOME care for cancer patients is to receive a huge boost in one of the most poorly served parts of the region.

Macmillan Cancer Relief has confirmed that a major National Lottery grant has been awarded to improve services in Easington, County Durham.

More than £295,700 of lottery cash has been awarded to the charity.

This sum is being matched with £100,000 from Macmillan to create Easington's first dedicated palliative care-at-home service.

An estimated 500 cancer sufferers and their families in east Durham will benefit over the next three years.

The money will be used to set up a comprehensive home care service which patients, carers and healthcare professionals will be able to call on.

The intention is to recruit a local GP with an interest in cancer and palliative care to support the scheme.

A Macmillan GP facilitator will also be appointed.