THERE was double cause for celebration at Grove House last week when two special anniversaries coincided. Not only was the Cancer the Next Step programme celebrating its 10th anniversary but volunteer Rae Newbury Ecob was celebrating her 80th birthday. Ha

THERE was double cause for celebration at Grove House last week when two special anniversaries coincided.

Not only was the Cancer the Next Step programme celebrating its 10th anniversary but volunteer Rae Newbury Ecob was celebrating her 80th birthday.

Harpenden Town Mayor, Rosemary Fowler, joined Grove House chief executive Mark Lister and invited guests and volunteers to mark both occasions.

Rae, who lives in Harpenden, has helped with the Cancer the Next Step programme on a voluntary basis since its beginnings in 1999.

Rae said: "I love coming to Grove House, the atmosphere is happy and welcoming, I enjoy meeting the patients, listening to them and helping them get the most out of the day.

"I am surprised and delighted that I am being honoured in this way today."

Cancer the Next Step is one of the many services offered at Grove House Hospice. An innovative and unique eight-week programme, it is offered to younger, newly-diagnosed cancer patients.

The course runs on Mondays and is open to men and women aged between 18 and 60 who have been diagnosed in the last 18 months.

Ros Thomas, one of the programme's facilitators, said: "A diagnosis of cancer can be a life-changing experience.

"Recent research shows that, as a result of medical advances, more and more people are living longer than ever after a cancer diagnosis.

"This programme gives people in similar situations an opportunity to share their experiences; it aims to help participants feel stronger, better able to cope and move on with renewed confidence and self esteem."

Rosemary Fowler gave a short speech commending the work of the hospice and thanked Rae in particular and the many dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly over the years to help make Cancer the Next Step an established and successful Grove House service.

To find out more about Cancer the Next Step and other services offered at Grove House call 01727 731000 or visit www.grove-house.org.uk