COMPUTER users across south Hampshire are being urged to go green to help people living with cancer.

Fundraisers behind a £1m appeal to set up a dedicated cancer information and support centre at Southampton General Hospital want to collect used printer cartridges.

All donations of used inkjet and toner cartridges will be recycled to raise funds for local people affected by cancer.

Companies, schools and organisations are being invited to have a cartridge bin at their workplace which will be emptied free of charge, while individuals can use freepost envelopes.

Every used cartridge will be recycled by the Cartridge Recycling Company Ltd to raise funds to help the appeal, being run by Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Connie McConachie, appeal manager, said: "What better way to dispose of your cartridges than recycling them for charity.

"Not only will Macmillan Cancer Relief benefit from this scheme but, equally important, by recycling these reusable materials waste is diverted from our local landfills."

The planned state-of-the-art centre will provide help and advice for anyone affected by cancer - relatives and friends will be as welcome as patients themselves.

Designed to offer a homely atmosphere, the building will be in complete contrast to the stark wards and cold hospital corridors often associated with cancer care.

Facilities will include complementary therapies, support groups, information leaflets, Internet access, Macmillan staff, stylish wigs and headgear and advice about patient grants and state benefits.

As well as those living in south Hampshire, the centre will support those on the Isle of Wight, parts of Dorset, Wiltshire and in the Channel Islands.

The massive £1m fundraising drive - backed by the Daily Echo - has already started and is expected to run for about two years.

For information about recycling for the Macmillan Cancer Relief Appeal for South Hampshire telephone 023 8023 6367.