COMPASSIONATE readers have come to the rescue after the theft of thousands of pounds worth of vital cancer equipment from Winchester's Royal Hampshire County Hospital.

A laptop and digital projector, used to display results from smears, biopsies and other cancer tests, were snatched in a raid in August.

Hospital staff now want to say a huge thank you to people who sent in money to help replace the equipment used for the flagship service.

A hospital spokesperson said: "Since reading about the incident in the local papers, members of the public have expressed compassion by donating around £300. This money will be put towards replacing the stolen equipment, as will any further donations."

A team of specialist staff used the equipment, worth £5,000, every week to look at pathology results and monitor patients' illnesses.

It was bought from cash donated to the hospital by patients pleased with their service and the fundraising efforts of cancer charities across the county. Although the equipment was insured it would have cost double the amount it was worth to make a claim.

Jeremy Hogg, consultant radiologist, said: "The response has been overwhelming. This shows what terrific support we have from the local community.

"The money that has been donated so far will go some way towards replacing what has been taken."

Anyone who has not pledged money and would like to, should send a cheque to Dr Hogg at the hospital's MRI unit, made payable to Winchester and Eastleigh Healthcare NHS Trust charitable funds.