Savers at the West Brom have helped Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s cancer unit appeal move closer to its £4 million target, thanks to a £70,300 donation.

The money is from the annual proceeds of the Society’s Red Balloon Appeal Account and is based on the average balance held in all accounts. In the last three years alone it has raised £202,553 for the hospital’s appeal to fund a major upgrade of its cancer unit.

Jonathan Westhoff, Chief Executive of the West Brom, met young patients and staff when he visited the hospital to mark the donation.

He said: “I’m always impressed with the quality of care and positive atmosphere which is evident at this amazing hospital.

“As a mutual we believe in assisting causes in our community and it is thanks to our members saving with us that we can back such a vital local cause. The cancer unit appeal is the biggest ever launched by the hospital and it will be hugely satisfying for us to see the project get off the ground, knowing that we have played a part in making it happen.”

Since the West Brom launched the Red Balloon affinity account in 2007 it has generated £582,300 on behalf of Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Hospital Chief Executive Sarah-Jane Marsh said: “The West Brom has been a big friend to Birmingham Children’s Hospital over the years and we are beyond grateful for their generous and heartfelt support.

“This donation will allow us to improve the lives of hundreds of cancer patients and their families who are treated at the hospital each year by totally transforming the cancer unit facilities and accommodation.”

The service has outgrown the present cancer unit which is more than 30 years old. It sees 3,000 cancer patients from across the UK every year.

The £4 million will enable Birmingham Children’s Hospital to provide new facilities and accommodation with better communal areas for families and improved outpatients’ areas.

Red Balloon Appeal Accounts can be opened at any West Brom building society branch, or savers can complete an application form online and post it to the Society.