'Together we can change this': Yorkshire Cancer Research marks 100 years since first ever public appeal

This moment which took place only eight months after the charity was first founded in May 1925, helped lay the foundation for 100 years of life-saving cancer research in Yorkshire.

The appeal began when Yorkshire Cancer Research’s President, Viscount Lascelles, who later became the 6th Earl of Harewood, challenged a room full of people to together pledge £50,000 before they left the room. The target was ambitious, equating to more than £2.5 million in today’s currency, yet it was met in full thanks to the remarkable commitment of those present.

To meet an overall target of £75,000, a call was then put out to Yorkshire for locals to donate what they can to help.

Sir Harold Mackintosh, Yorkshire Cancer Research’s Honorary Secretary at the time, urged the county’s residents to “deliver the attack upon cancer, the great enemy of mankind, and become the new Saint George in the work of slaying the dragon.”

The response was remarkable and the charity’s Chairman, Sir Berkeley Moynihan, recalled how donations flowed in “from the Tees to the Don, from the Pennines to the North Sea.”

By the middle of the year, he declared: We started out with hope but now we have the certainty of having the best research centre in the whole country.”

Yorkshire Cancer Research’s first appeal marked the beginning of a century of unwavering determination and community spirit, which has brought life-saving breakthroughs and progress to people in Yorkshire, and beyond.

Today Yorkshire Cancer Research funds £75 million of pioneering research and services, including 26 clinical trials, to find new and better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer in Yorkshire.

Dr Kathryn Scott, chief executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research, said: “2025 has been a truly special year for Yorkshire Cancer Research, marking 100 years of saving lives in Yorkshire.

“The charity’s rich and fascinating history is built on ground-breaking discoveries, unwavering dedication, and the incredible people in Yorkshire, including in Sheffield, who have made it all possible.

“Looking ahead, the charity is committed to working with researchers, supporters and people affected by cancer to find new and better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer in our region.

“Progress is being made all the time, but sadly, Yorkshire remains one of the regions hardest hit by cancer. Together, we can change this.

“The mission of Yorkshire Cancer Research is clear - to find new cancer cures and treatments and bring them to people in Yorkshire. By working closely with cancer experts and communities across the region, the charity can build a future where fewer lives are lost to cancer, and more people can share precious moments with their loved ones.

“Together, we will continue to make great progress toward a Yorkshire free from cancer.”