Major building work on Bradford's new state-of-the-art cancer centre has been completed, with the first patient expected at the end of May.

The £5.2 million purpose-built shell is now undergoing internal refurbish-

ment, with beds, carpets and medical equipment expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Originally planned to be finished in February, construction work on the site near Leeds Road Hospital has been hampered by bad weather.

But Bradford's Marie Curie Cancer Care fundraiser Brian Curran said everybody involved was looking forward to the opening with a great sense of expectancy.

He said: "Even the charity nationwide is excited about the centre opening - the quality of care we are going to be offering is fantastic.

"Our current building at Ardenlea in Ilkley is very old. We have worked with that and had lifts put in, but now we have purpose-built premises.

"It's all on one level and the majority of patients will be placed in single rooms with en-suite facilities. It will be easier for nurses, staff and patients."

The horseshoe-shaped building built of brick and glass aims to offer bright, relaxing surroundings for the terminally ill and includes therapeutic features such as a fish tank and landscaped gardens.

It will house 16 beds, a daycare centre complete with physiotherapy lounge, hairdressers and activity area, a contemplation zone for all faiths and a caf.

Charity workers are now seeking the final £1 million to hit the £5.2 million target.

Mr Curran said: "I think the people of Bradford have been unbelievably generous in their support, both financially and in taking part in our events. From talking to people on the street, there is a large awareness of the centre."

For details on fundraising events or to make a donation, call the Bradford Appeal Office on (01274) 780606.