An MP found out more about the work being done to prevent the deaths of the 732 people who lose their lives from cancer in his constituency each year.

Carshalton and Wallington MP joined Cancer Research UK scientists in Westminster to find out about the charity's plans to make three out of four diagnosed cancer patients survive for at least 10 years within the next 20 years.

Tom Brake said, "The good news is that there have been significant steps forward for cancer patients and more people are surviving this horrendous disease. 

"We have come a long way but there’s still lots to be done.

"We are so fortunate to have The Royal Marsden world-leading cancer centre in Sutton and I am positive that through Cancer Research UK and all of our support, we will be able to improve survival through the earlier diagnosis of cancer and greater access to the best treatment possible."

In Carshalton and Wallington, 732 people die from cancer each year. However, recent advances mean half of people diagnosed with the disease live for at least 10 years and researchers are working to boost that figure.

Sara Osborne, head of policy at Cancer Research UK, added: "It’s great to have Tom’s support to highlight the vital role MPs and their constituents can play in helping tackle all cancers.

"We must not underestimate the devastating impact that cancer has on the lives of those with cancer diagnosis and their families.

"As more people are diagnosed with the disease, it’s essential that we speed up our progress. We need the public and the MPs behind us and help make our ambition possible. In the next two decades we can, and will, transform the outlook for cancer patients."

For more information on Cancer Research UK's work, visit cruk.org/campaigns.