A FUTURISTIC robot which can transform cancer surgery is a step closer to becoming reality thanks to the phenomenal efforts of a group of prostate cancer survivors.

Fundraisers Brian Wilkes, Ian Jukes, and Paul Markall, have spent the last 18 months tirelessly raising cash for The Rory the Robot Appeal - which aims to raise 1.6m for the future of prostate cancer surgery in Worcestershire.

The robot, which will be at Redditch's Alexandra Hospital, will allow surgeons to perform minimally invasive surgery, removing the prostate gland.

Patients will benefit from less pain, minimal blood loss, quicker recovery and reduced complications - which will free up beds,

It is also hoped the machine will help encourage consultants to come to the hospital - something it is currently lacking.

A special event was held last week to celebrate reaching nearly £290,000 - enough for a down payment for the robot.

Hospital consultants, the CEO of Morrisons, which has been very supportive of the appeal, staff from the Chamber of Commerce, Worcestershire Ambassadors and Redditch MP Karen Lumley joined fundraisers for a presentation on the project – and were even given the chance to have a go on a life-size prototype of the robot.

Speakers included consultant urologist surgeon Adel Makar as well as Mr Wilkes, who works for Morrisons in Bromsgrove, who spoke passionately about why such a machine is so badly needed.

A series of charity activities, including bag packing events have been held at various Morrisons stores, have helped raise the cash so far with more planned for next year.

For more information about the appeal, visit worcsacute.nhs.uk/about-us/fundraising/latest-events-and-appeals/rory-the-robot.