History Timeline

1978

Dr Malcolm McIllmurray, a cancer specialist, moves to Lancaster

He sees there is a pressing need for cancer support services. A room is hired in Ryelands House in Lancaster where people can talk to a cancer specialist one evening a week.

1983

The idea for CancerCare is born

A group of like-minded people meet to discuss setting up a cancer support charity in Lancaster.

1984

CancerCare is Formed

CancerCare is formally set up by Malcolm Mcillmurray and a group including nurses, GPs, hospital staff, a social worker, a city councillor, a solicitor and a journalist. The charity is originally based in the new St John’s Hospice building.

1989

Cancercare opens in Lancaster

CancerCare purchases Slynedales in Lancaster after an extensive fundraising campaign. The former gentleman’s residence and school on Slyne Road is transformed into a cancer support centre.

1998

The Lakes Centre is Purchased

The Lakes Centre is purchased and opens after a successful fundraising appeal. This former NHS medical centre becomes the charity’s South Lakeland base.

2017

Cancercare opens in Barrow

CancerCare opens a centre at Trinity Church in Barrow. This is a temporary centre on Warwick Street in Barrow for people across the Furness Peninsula.

2018

Plans for new centre in barrow

The charity announces plans to buy a property on Duke Street in Barrow.

2019

New cancercare centre in Barrow

CancerCare aims to have its new Barrow cancer support centre open by end of the year.

History Timeline