THE DUKE of Westminster has revealed a personal insight into his own family's struggle with cancer during the official opening of the new cancer unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

The Duke was in town on Tuesday (June17) as special guest at the opening the new Macmillan Windmill Unit and unveil a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

But, speaking after the official ceremony, the Duke -- who is one of the country's richest men and a close friend of Prince Charles -- congratulated local people for the unit and told of his own wife's struggle with cancer.

The Duke said: "This superb unit is a testament to the patience, hard work and dedication of the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre community's.

"Walking around the grounds the feedback I have had from patients is wonderful. One patient was absolutely over the moon that she was receiving her treatment here.

"And it is not just sufferers who will benefit from the unit. My own wife has had cancer so I know that families need as much help as the patient.

"Having pleasant, comfortable and state-of-the-art surroundings in which to offer and receive treatment can make a huge difference to everyone touched by this dreadful condition."

The unit first opened its doors to patients on January 20 this year. It was built improve facilities for cancer patients across Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde, and provide a better working environment for the staff.

The £2.5 million development was the result of a joint partnership between Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Hospitals NHS Trust and Macmillan Cancer Relief.

More than £2m has been raised for the unit so far through Macmillan's Windmill Appeal, of which the Duke is president. He has also donated £100,000 to the fund himself.

Beverley Lester, chairman of the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "The duke first came to the hospital back in August 2001 to cut the first turf to mark the start of the building works.

"We are delighted that he has kindly agreed to come back to officially open the new unit and see first hand how this state-of-the-art facility is benefiting patients."

Elaine Fossett, Macmillan Windmill Appeal director, added: "The building of this wonderful unit would not have been possible without the tremendous support of the people of Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde.

"I am confident that their support and generosity will continue and help us to reach our final goal of £2.5 million."