A top consultant at Royal Preston Hospital, part of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, has been honoured for her research into cancer.

Consultant oncologist, Dr Alison Birtle, has been appointed an Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at The University of Manchester in recognition of her academic and clinical research of cancer.

She has recently been involved in a major international cancer trial to find a treatment for advanced prostate cancer and has helped develop and run a national trial in bladder cancer treatment.

The School of Cancer and Imaging Sciences have awarded the honorary title.

Dr Birtle said: "This award is hugely appreciated and is a great honour.

"It recognises the academic and clinical trials work that I have undertaken to research cancer. This type of work is essential if we are to find better and more effective treatments to tackle this disease."

Dr Gerry Skailes, clinical director for cancer services, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This is an excellent achievement and a huge honour for Dr Birtle.

"It not only recognises her research work but it is also enhances the reputation of the Rosemere Cancer Centre.

"I am delighted that she has been recognised by The University of Manchester."