Russ Jones - one of two patients being supported by Advertiser readers in our Last Hope appeal - contacted Warwickshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) recently asking for documents and further information regarding treatment for his rare stomach cancer.

The PCT is denying the 62-year-old free access to the £3,500 a month drug Sutent -which could prolong his life - claiming it is not 'cost effective'.

However, administrators from the PCT - who say they have a limited budget - told Russ, of Elter Close, Brownsover, his queries would have to wait until PCT staff returned from annual leave.

Russ said: "It's my life and they are not going to get together and support it. It's another part of the annoyance that we have to put up with this."

About £2,500 has been raised for Russ and fellow patient Colin Howe - who needs the drug to treat his kidney cancer - in our campaign.

The drug is available from other PCTs in the country and has been shown to help some cancer sufferers.

The PCT, who said it would respond to Russ's claims, says it needs to divert resources to help other patients as well.

Russ - who is due to appear on BBC News 24 this weekend highlighting treatment inequalities - is currently receiving a second batch of monthly treatment.

Colin and his wife Susan, of Gentian Close, Browns-over, have arranged a sponsored walk and run around Draycote Water on Sunday, September 2 at 10.30am

Funds from the event, sponsored by Leicester Road-based company Great Central Vauxhall, will go to the Colin Howe Cancer Care Appeal.

Anyone interested should contact Susan on (01788) 333204 or 0787 192 8643.

Sponsorship funds are available from Dorothy Perkins in High Street, Rugby.