AN APPEAL to create a new cancer wellbeing centre for the Isle of Wight has passed the halfway mark.

Wessex Cancer Trust's £100,000 Building for the Future appeal has raised more than £62,000 in six months.

The money has been raised through a series of fundraising events, grants, collections and donations, including August's inflatable rainbow run, which raised more than £30,000 alone.

Other major supporters include Tesco, which raised £2,500 by organising a fundraising weekend, and The Wight Strollers, who donated £5,000 from the ticket sales of their show, Priscilla: Queen of the Desert.

The trust's community engagement manager Lorraine White said: "When we totted everything up we were astounded to discover we were well over halfway.

"Islanders have really got behind the appeal and we're so grateful to everyone who has contributed so far. Every penny you have donated will go a long way in helping Islanders affected by cancer.

"Keep your eyes open for our next major fundraisers — we're planning something really exciting for Christmas."

It is hoped the remaining £38,000 will be raised over the next few months, so work on the new centre can begin in early 2019.

The new centre in Lugley Street, Newport, will provide a purpose-built community hub so the charity can expand its services such as professional counselling, drop-in sessions and complementary therapies.

If you'd like to support the appeal, there's still time to take part in the Brick by Brick Challenge.

The charity is looking for 50 businesses, community groups, schools or individuals to raise at least £500 for the cause in return for a named brick in the new centre.

To take part or donate, e-mail iwappeal@wessexcancer.org.uk or call Lorraine on 07785 472863.