IRVINE’S MP has voiced her concerns about an Ayrshire charity’s plans to withdraw a service for child cancer patients.

CLIC Sargent have announced proposals to pull the plug on a holiday service at Malcolm Sargent House in Prestwick for children suffering with cancer and their families.

The news has been described as “extremely disappointing” by Dr Philippa Whitford who is calling on CLIC Sargent to save Malcolm Sargent House.

It was revealed that the charity will prioritise the services that have the greatest impact on the largest number of children who use them.

But Dr Whitford described the prospect of the facility closing as “extremely sad”.

The Central Ayrshire MP said: “This is extremely disappointing news, not only for the many young people and their families who have spent time at Malcolm Sargent House but for the dedicated staff and fundraisers who work tirelessly to provide such an invaluable service.

“I understand the difficult financial climate that many charities are operating in and that they can’t always do everything they would like to. 

“It is, however, extremely sad to think that such a fantastic facility could be closed due to financial constraints, especially when children and families who have used the service say that a value couldn’t be placed on the support it gave to them.”

“Malcolm Sargent House is highly regarded both locally and nationally; indeed, it is the emblem of the CLIC Sargent organisation in
Scotland.

“It has a place in the hearts of the people of Prestwick and beyond, many of whom raise funds for the facility.

“I sincerely hope its time is not at an end.

“I have written to CLIC Sargent both locally and nationally and am meeting with their Chief Executive next week to look at what options are available to save Malcolm Sargent House.”