A LEADING cancer research scientist will be speaking to a group of East Lancashire fundraisers on Wednesday.

Professor Nic Jones, director of the Paterson Institute for Cancer Research in Manchester will be addressing the Cancer Research Campaign's Blackburn committee's annual general meeting.

The Paterson Institute is mostly funded by the Cancer Research Campaign and is in partnership with the cancer treatment centre at the Christie Hospital, Manchester.

The Blackburn committee is one of the campaign's most successful fundraising groups. Last year it raised £75,000.

Prof Jones, who became director of the institute last year, said: "It's the first time I've had a chance to get out and meet some of the Cancer Research Campaign's supporters, so I'm pleased to have been invited to speak in Blackburn."

A native of North Wales, Prof Jones was educated at University College, London, and the University of London.

He spent 12 years working in American universities before returning to the UK and specialising in cancer research.

His research includes the study of DNA tumour viruses and how they can prevent normal cell growth and promote the formation of tumours.

He is also studying how cells respond to adverse environmental conditions. An abnormal response can lead to damage to cells and can contribute to a number of conditions, including cancer.

Blackburn committee meeting will be held at the Hornby Theatre, Town Hall Street, Blackburn.

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