A host of sports stars from across Liverpool joined patients and fundraisers to launch the appeal to build a new cancer hospital in the city.
Football legends Jamie Carragher, Graeme Sharp and Ian Snodin were at the site of the new Clatterbridge centre alongside Olympic hockey player Sam Quek.
They joined Reece Holt, an 11-year-old who was treated at the Clatterbridge clinicl in Wirral for a brain tumour, to officially start the £15 million appeal.
The new hospital, in Liverpool city centre, is due to open in 2019.
“I would urge everyone to get behind this appeal in any way they can,” said Team GB medalist Quek.
“It is really important that the great work of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Wirral extends to Liverpool.
“This is an innovative city and it is incredible to see Liverpool at the centre of expert treatment and cancer research.”
As well as the new hospital due to open in 2019, £8 million will be invested in the current site in Wirral as part of the £157 million investment in transforming cancer care.
The radiotherapy centre at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Aintree, and chemotherapy clinics in the region’s district hospitals will also continue to treat patients.
People who want to help can also text Lets194 to 70070 to make a donation of £4.