IT saves thousands of lives all over the world, using revolutionary technology to treat tumours anywhere in the body with sub-millimetre accuracy.

That is why widow Ruth Peberdy, of Stawell, has raised around £40,000 to bring the £2.5million Cyberknife to Bridgwater's new hospital as a tribute to her late husband Ron.

The Mercury has reported how Ron became the first person in the UK to benefit from the system before he died of pancreatic cancer in 2004.

Shortly before his death he said: “If it's too late for me, it will not be for others”.

Since launching her crusade the former NHS nurse has secured charitable trust status, the backing of local MP Ian Liddell-Grainger, and discussed NHS patients' access to the treatment in the Houses of Commons in December.

There are around 180 Cyberknife systems in use across the world, including 20 in Europe and two in England, but NHS Somerset maintains the equipment is too costly.

A spokesman said: “Small community hospitals, like the one at Bridgwater, do not and are unlikely to ever be used to diagnose and treat patients with cancer.”

Ruth wrote to new Prime Minister David Cameron last week to pile on pressure. She said: “Would it not be wonderful to have it at the proposed new Bridgwater Hospital? Would it not put Bridgwater well and truly on the map?

“In the end, everyone, including the NHS, will reap the benefits of investing in Cyberknife technology.”

Mr Liddell-Grainger added: “I totally support Ruth, Cyberknife is a fantastic way to treat cancer patients and could help so many people in Bridgwater.”

Click on the link to find out more about Cyberknife and how you can donate to Ruth's cause, or call her on 01278-722914.