Behind the scenes at Wales' biggest cancer centre

IMRT machine can target cancer cells more directly Credit: ITV Wales

Each year thousands of patients in Wales get to use a radiation machine that doesn't just save lives, but saves the quality of lives.

Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) allows experts to focus more precisely on the cancer cells, meaning nearby healthy tissues are less likely to be affected. The machine is available in several centres across Wales. The one in Velindre was installed at a total cost of £4.6million, funded by the Welsh Government. It means patients who would have had to travel to England for the advanced treatment, will now be able to get that care in Wales.

Clive Loebenstein-Peckham says he owes his speech and his ability to eat to IMRT treatment. He was diagnosed with mouth cancer, but the care was so targeted it didn't damage those abilities.

Preparing for trials at Velindre Cancer Centre Credit: ITV Wales

Cancer trials are also an important part of the care given at Velindre. Some of the drugs used are so new, they only last for 15 minutes so it's essential that patients are close by.

Alan Buckle took part in the first ever trial that happened here, following treatment for incurable prostate cancer.

Alan Buckle took part in the first ever Velindre trial Credit: ITV Wales