A top cancer doctor who has served at The Royal Marsden in Chelsea for nearly 40 years has been awarded a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Professor Martin Gore, a consultant medical oncologist has been recognised for his services to oncology both nationally and internationally for his work in melanoma, and ovarian and renal cancers.

He describes the changes in cancer care, since his first role as a senior house officer in 1978 up until now, as ‘truly remarkable’.

Professor Gore said: “I am been extremely fortunate to have worked at The Royal Marsden for over 30 years where one is surrounded by such dedicated and talented colleagues from all healthcare professions and disciplines. I want to thank them for their support; this honour really belongs to them.

“Above all I want to remember and pay tribute to my patients and their families who through their courage and determination have inspired me, particularly during some dark days when improvements in treatment for some appeared unobtainable.

“The changes we have witnessed in cancer care over my professional life are truly remarkable but more importantly, I believe we are on the cusp of a new era of ever more effective therapies.”

In 2006, Professor Gore was appointed medical director and in January this year after 10 years of outstanding leadership, he stepped down.

In 2015 he was awarded The Royal Marsden’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Chief Executive Cally Palmer said: “Professor Martin Gore has made an exceptional contribution to the work of The Royal Marsden, and oncology worldwide. “Throughout his time here he has remained devoted to patient care and to developing the next generation of clinical leaders and researchers.”

Dr James Larkin, consultant medical oncologist at The Royal Marsden, added: “Professor Gore has been an inspiration to a generation of medical oncologists both in the UK and internationally and has made a major contribution through research to improving outcomes in a number of different cancer types.

“He has mentored and advised countless numbers of oncologists and scientists in training, many of whom, now consultants or professors themselves, still turn to him for his help and wisdom.”

Also in west London, Ickenham chairman of charity bus fund for people with disabilities made MBE.

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