MOST people do not know it exists but Pembrokeshire Cancer Support Centre is a haven for many people.

The centre is above the Pembrokeshire Cancer Support charity shop at 91, Queen Street and the message is clear - “We are here, please come in,” charity coordinator Lyn Neville said.

Established in 1991, Pembrokeshire Cancer Support Group became a charity in 1995 and it has been based at Queen Street since 2007.

The centre provides support to those who have or have had cancer, and their family and friends. There are relaxation and reflexology sessions, a craft group and a quiet room with a library, as well as outreach services.

Lyn, 51, was himself diagnosed with blood cancer in 2005 but he is now fighting fit thanks to a successful bone marrow transplant.

“The reality is that unless you have cancer or are caring for someone with cancer you don’t go looking for services like this,” he said. “Places like this are not for everybody but they can really help some people.

“It’s very difficult to explain to someone who has not had cancer what it’s like. If you speak to someone who has been through it or is going through it you can identify with their experiences.”

The father-of-two added: “Everybody assumes it’s going to be doom and gloom, that everybody’s going to be wailing and crying and talking about illness and death, but we try to make it anything but.”

Valerie Downes, of Pembroke, was given just six months to live.

“I would have been lost without coming here,” she said. “Without this place I don’t think I would have fought so much.”

Karen Marsden, of Pembroke Dock, added: “Coming here makes you realise you’re not going through it on your own.”

“I always go home with a smile on my face, we’re like a family here,” added Gillian Gilbert who travels from Haverfordwest especially for the centre.

For more information go to www.pembrokeshirecancersupport.org.uk, the Pembrokeshire Cancer Support Facebook page or call 01646 683078.