And Scan For Life only officially started in July - and then came the credit crunch!

The campaign, which was launched in conjunction with Doncaster Detection Trust, hopes to raise £600,000 to buy a new state-of-the-art scanner for DRI - a mission which hundreds of readers have taken to their hearts.

But there's still a long way to go yet - and we need the support of plenty more fundraisers to make 2009 a Happier New Year for cancer patients across the borough.

Scan For Life certainly struck a chord with more than 350 carol singers who descended on Doncaster Minster earlier this month to raise money for the appeal as well as the St George's restoration fund.

An even bigger crowd braved the cold snap to complete the Free Press' first ever Midnight Walk in October, while the last six months has seen a spectacular number of sponsored events from sky-dives to stylish dance nights.

South Yorkshire Newspapers' editor in chief Graeme Huston said: "We're absolutely delighted at the response we've had to Scan For Life - long may it continue.

"The people of Doncaster have clearly recognised the long-term importance of this appeal and their generosity never ceases to amaze us."

Scan For Life has been backed along the way by Doncaster MPs Rosie Winterton and Ed Miliband, as well as the town's Olympic Tae Kwon Do hero Sarah Stevenson.

Doctors say the new 64-slice scanner will revolutionise the detection and treatment of cancer across the borough by dramatically reducing patient waiting times and producing sharper images.

* Anyone organising a Scan For Life fundraising event should contact campaign reporter Paul Goodwin for publicity on (01302) 347260.

* Donations to the appeal can be made by visiting the trust at 4 East Laith Gate in Doncaster town centre, with cheques made payable to 'Doncaster Cancer Detection Trust'.

* Funds may also be paid directly into the campaign account: Co-operative Bank, account number 50326679.

* If you would like to help the DCDT in any way contact them directly on (01302) 349177.