MERSEYSIDE’S top cancer researchers are joining together for the first time today, as a hub of excellence opens in Liverpool.

It is hoped the Liverpool Cancer Research Centre, which from today will incorporate all of Merseyside’s major cancer research teams, will be the first step to improving services and lowering death rates in the region.

Liverpool has one of the UK’s highest cancer mortality rates, with an extra 350 people dying of cancer each year when compared to the national average.

The charity Clatterbridge Cancer Research has now moved its team into the centre, to join existing researchers from the University of Liverpool, the Roy Castle Foundation and Cancer Research UK (CRUK).

The step will be officially celebrated tonight, during a ceremony in the building on Daulby Street.

The centre was given CRUK centre status in February, and the movement of Clatterbridge’s team completes the collaboration.

Experts say it is imperative Merseyside improves its cancer services.

Prof John Neoptolemos, head of the School of Cancer Studies, said: “Before, it was about providing research for the local area, but in this day and age you have to do research of a world- class standard.

“We can only do that if we are part of a larger organisation, we need to move forward.

“The best cancer treatments are achieved in the context of major research.

“Our current services are just not up to scratch compared with other countries and this needs to change.”