Hospital ribbon cutting honours Gordon Sparks' memory
BBCAn extension to an oncology centre at Derriford Hospital has been officially opened by the family of late BBC Radio Devon presenter and Argyle commentator Gordon Sparks.
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust said a ribbon cutting event was held on Thursday to mark the opening of the new £18.5m Plymouth Oncology Centre. Sparksy, as he was known, was being treated for cancer at St Luke's Hospice in Plymouth.
He died in 2022 at the age of 61. His widow Heather and his daughter Holly attended the opening along with Plymouth Argyle coach Kevin Nancekivell.
"He was well cared for when he had cancer," Heather said. "It's just really special that he's being honoured in this way."
The hospital trust said the building included a new state-of-the-art linear accelerator to deliver external beam radiotherapy and a dedicated High Dose Rate (HDR) brachytherapy facility for internal radiotherapy.
The extension also includes a new entrance to the centre, as well as new offices for the radiotherapy physics, treatment planning and clinical trials teams.
Chris Bowen, radiotherapy services lead, said the building had been "many years in the making".
"With the construction of a new radiotherapy decant bunker, we not only have the room for a brand-new advanced treatment machine, but we can also begin to replace our older machines without affecting the service we deliver," he added.
Heather, who cut the ribbon, said her late husband supported the hospital through fundraising events.
"It is a wonderful tribute to him and the whole family are incredibly touched by this dedication," she said.
Plymouth Argyle coach Nancekivell said the new centre was "breathtaking", adding "Gordon would have been a little bit embarrassed" by the honour.
"Gordon wasn't one who wanted the starlight shining on him," the coach said.
"He would have been really proud and he would have been really grateful for everything that's been done.
"He was a huge part of Plymouth."
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