A CAMPAIGN to raise cash for hi-tech breast screening equipment will be boosted by the proceeds of this year’s Southend Carnival.

The town’s carnival association announced it will be supporting the Bosom Pals Appeal at Southend Hospital which is raising money to help ensure the early diagnosis of breast cancer.

The campaign aims to raise £750,000 for two new digital mammography machines, which will give more accurate, better quality and almost instantaneous images for patients.

Carnival spokesman Gemma Steptoe said: “Each year, Southend Carnival Association supports an organisation within the town which makes an impact on the lives of people who live in the borough.

“One in nine women will develop breast cancer at some time.”

She added the breast screening units in Southend saw between 25,000 and 30,000 women each year in a bid to reduce breast cancer deaths.

“The new equipment will help in making sure more women are able to be treated during the early stages of cancer.”

In addition to Bosom Pals, the Sycamore Fund, which supports young Southend carers, will get cash.

This organisation has been chosen by Southend mayor Brian Smith as his charity for the year.

Southend Carnival has strong links with the town’s hospital. Before the NHS, it was a hospital carnival, funding the then charity hospital.

Carnival week is August 14 to 22.

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She added: “The unit has its own specialist team of staff who guide women through initial diagnosis, subsequent treatment and aftercare.