BLACKBURN MP Kate Hollern recalled the death of her partner from cancer during a Westminster plea for more government cash to fight the killer disease.

Darwen Labour councillor John Roberts passed away aged 61 in 2017 leaving two daughters Faye and Megan.

Mrs Hollern spoke in a special House of Commons debate calling for more investment in radiotherapy treatment for cancer.

Her contribution moved junior health minister Seema Kennedy, a cousin by marriage of the late Cllr Roberts, close to tears.

Mrs Hollern said: "There is not one MP whose life has not been touched by cancer.

"My late partner John suffered from it and, sadly, lost his battle two years ago despite excellent treatment from the Royal Blackburn Hospital. I know and sympathise with many constituents struggling through treatment.

""Like John, 47,000 men a year in Britain are found to have prostate cancer, and more than 11,500 a year die.

"Until now, it was thought that there was no point in treating the prostate itself if the cancer had already spread because it would be like shutting the stable door after the horse had bolted.

"However, a Birmingham University study proved the benefit of prostate radiotherapy. Unlike many new drugs for cancer, radiotherapy is a simple and relatively cheap treatment that is readily available in most of the world."

Former Westholme School head girl Mrs Kennedy said: "I want to thank particularly Mrs Hollern who spoke movingly about her late partner, John.

"His example lives on through his two beautiful daughters, my beautiful cousins, who have dedicated their lives to public service.We need to do more to bring up the levels of cancer survival. I'm happy to work with MPs to ensure that radiotherapy is a vital part of this battle ."