HER Majesty the Queen officially opened the Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospitals Bath on Tuesday, September 3.

Her Majesty toured the new Dyson Cancer Centre, which combines RUH’s oncology, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, inpatient ward, pharmacy, research, and nuclear medicine services.

The building is designed around a land, water and sky theme, making use of natural light and the work of local artists and designers to create a place where excellent clinical care is matched by a soothing, healing environment.

The Queen met with staff and patients in the Medlock Day Care Unit, which provides specialist non-surgical treatments for people with cancer, including chemotherapy and other anti-cancer treatments. The Queen visited the William Budd inpatient ward, and spent time in the special courtyard space which was created to allow the hospital’s most vulnerable patients the opportunity to spend time outdoors. 

Sandy Tyler, wearing purple, and her daughter, met with the Queen during the visit.
Sandy Tyler, wearing purple, and her daughter, met with the Queen during the visit. (PAUL GILLIS)

Her Majesty also visited the Macmillan Wellbeing Hub, which offers a welcoming space for patients and families, as well as a range of services to support people and their loved ones to live well with cancer. 

Her Majesty was hosted on the day by RUH chief executive Cara Charles-Barks, who said: “It’s been a real pleasure to welcome Her Majesty the Queen to the RUH today. The Dyson Cancer Centre is a wonderful building which supports us to provide the highest quality of cancer care for our community.” 

Before leaving the Dyson Cancer Centre, Her Majesty unveiled a plaque to commemorate the day and was presented with a posy by Riya Gowda, a pupil at a local school whose father is a consultant oncologist within the centre. 

Riya Gowda, a pupil at a local school whose father is a consultant oncologist at the centre, presented a posy to the Queen.
Riya Gowda, a pupil at a local school whose father is a consultant oncologist at the centre, presented a posy to the Queen. (Paul Gillis)

Following the plaque unveiling, Her Majesty said: “Can I congratulate all of you on this wonderful centre. I’ve had a brief tour around and everybody I’ve met - whether it’s the patients, the families or the nursing staff and the helpers - all seem to be over the moon about it.

“It’s got a very welcoming atmosphere and you can see that it actually raises people’s spirits in a very difficult time. So, congratulations to you all… it is very special so thank you very much for asking me to open it.”

The Dyson Cancer Centre, with a separate entrance near RUH, lets visitors bypass the main building. The Macmillan Wellbeing Hub, open 8am to 6pm, provides support services, including counselling, therapy, and overnight accommodation. Appointments can be booked in advance.