Health Secretary Shona Robison visited the Lanarkshire Beatson to announce funding of £450,000 to support Scottish-led breast cancer research.

During her visit to Scotland’s newest radiotherapy centre, Ms Robison toured the facilities and met patients and staff.

Ms Robison said: “We are committed to providing the best possible care for those with cancer. This includes supporting ground-breaking research, as well as modern treatment facilities like the new Lanarkshire Beatson.

“While research into cancer is vital, we must also continue to invest in the treatment for those with the condition. Demand for radiotherapy is set to increase significantly over the next 10 years as more of us live longer and more cases of cancer are detected at an earlier stage.

The Lanarkshire Beatson is a satellite facility for the Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and is equipped with the most advanced technology to deliver world-class treatment.

The new satellite radiotherapy centre includes two state-of-the-art linear accelerators. These will enable around 80 patient treatments a day for people who require radiotherapy for lung, breast, prostate and rectal cancers.

Neena Mahal, Chair of NHS Lanarkshire said: “As a partnership project involving five health boards and the Scottish Government, the Lanarkshire Beatson demonstrates our shared commitment to treat more patients in modern facilities and reduce waiting times.

“The Lanarkshire Beatson has only been opened for a short while but has already made a huge difference to our patients by giving them access to diagnostic and cancer treatment services not previously available in Lanarkshire.”