The organiser of a charity darts day yesterday presented a cheque for £8,500 to the hospital department which treated him when he was struck down with breast cancer five years ago.

March police officer Mark Cross’ annual Cancer Charity Fun Day at the GER Sports Club has raised a staggering £23,318 for the Oncology Department at Peterborough City Hospital since it was first held in 2011.

Prestigious sports memorabilia auctioned off at the 2014 edition, held in March, included a framed display of a Manchester United shirt, including a signed photograph of Eric Cantona, which fetched £500, and a framed England rugby shirt signed by Lawrence Dallaglio and Johnny Wilkinson (as well as other squad members) for £450.

Also on the day, 114 players took part in a darts tournament. This year’s event raised nearly £3,000 more than last year’s effort.

Mr Cross said: “In September 2009, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and, under the care of Dr Jan Rezulski, underwent a mastectomy and a second operation to remove the lymph nodes from under my left arm.

“I was then introduced to the wonderful Dr Karen McAdam and her caring team of nurses.

“I had seven months of chemotherapy at Peterborough and three weeks of radiotherapy at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in 2010.

“It was during my chemotherapy that I witnessed first-hand the incredible job that all that work in the Oncology Department do.

“They work with compassion, care and were always there for me to offer advice and listen to all of my concerns.

“There is no doubt that the care and treatment I have received saved my life. Having completed my treatment, I felt I had to do something to say thank you.”