At the heart of the transformation, funded entirely through donations to the QEHKL Charity is the inspiring legacy of local fundraiser Gavin English, whose decade-long promise to improve care for others has now become a reality.
Gavin, who passed away in 2023, raised an astonishing £116,500 single-handedly after his wife Frances received care at the centre — a personal mission that will change the experience of cancer treatment for more than 12,000 patients each year.
The official reopening was celebrated at a special event (21.10.25) attended by Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, Lady Pippa Dannatt, Terry Jermy, MP for South West Norfolk, Mayor of King’s Lynn Cllr Andy Bullen, and members of Gavin’s family – daughter Belinda Penkethman and son Ray English, who travelled from Australia to honour their father’s legacy.
Other key donors include the Breast of Friends Charity (£40,000) and the Robert Foot Leukaemia Foundation (£10,000), whose contributions helped complete the centre’s modern and uplifting redesign.
Poor lighting, cramped waiting areas and limited seating had long been a challenge for patients spending long hours receiving chemotherapy and other treatments. The refurbished centre now features:
- Bright, modern spaces with bespoke artwork and natural light;
- Comfortable seating and treatment couches
- A quiet room for private and sensitive conversations
- A Kindness Corner, where patients can choose free donated treats
- Digital information screens, background music and entertainment
- Dedicated staff areas to support team wellbeing
The project was co-designed with patients, staff, and the hospital’s Cancer Services User Group to ensure the new environment promotes dignity, comfort and care.
Karon Strong, Head of Nursing (Medicine) at The QEH, said: “This transformation is about much more than a refurbishment — it’s about compassion, dignity and the power of community. Gavin’s determination, generosity and love have left an extraordinary legacy that will continue to touch lives every day.”
Chris Bown, Interim Managing Director who led the celebrations added: “This project represents the very best of our hospital and our community — people coming together to make a difference. Thousands of patients will benefit from these improvements, and it’s fitting that Gavin’s name will forever be linked to this centre and to the hope it represents.”
Belinda Penkethman, Gavin’s daughter, said: “Dad never stopped fundraising. He kept the promise he made to Mum and inspired everyone around him. To see what his efforts have achieved — a place that’s bright, positive and full of care — means the world to our family.”
At the reopening event, guests including VIP dignitaries, staff, and patients heard moving speeches and witnessed Gavin’s family unveil a commemorative plaque in his honour.
The refurbished Cancer Care and Treatment Centre is now a place of comfort, warmth and hope — a lasting tribute to a man whose kindness and determination has made a life-changing difference for cancer patients across West Norfolk and beyond.
Notes to editors;
If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or call 01553 613309.
For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216.
For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
About QEHKL Charity: QEHKL Charity plays a vital role in supporting The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. The charity raises funds for medical equipment, research, services, and facilities that directly benefit patients and their families. With its support, QEHKL can provide high-quality care, expand services, and improve the hospital experience for those in need.
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