When a child is diagnosed with cancer the whole family’s world is turned upside down.

In this region we are blessed to have access to first class treatment through places like Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool.

But Northwich couple Dai and Lynda Hill found there was nothing available in the way of emotional and practical support when their little boy Joshua was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, aged just five.

This gap in provision was the reason they set up The Joshua Tree charity with the long-term vision of establishing a support centre, which has just opened its doors for families across the North West and North Wales.

Northwich Guardian: The new centre has opened its doors and is currently operating in a Covid-secure way

Today Josh is a healthy 22-year-old personal trainer, who even puts on fitness sessions at the day centre in its beautiful rural setting in Sandiway, near Northwich.

Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury, who was given a tour on Friday, wants to spread the word about this fabulous facility, which is free-of-charge to families affected by childhood cancers.

He said: "I was honoured to be shown around The Joshua Tree centre which supports the child and the whole family, in terms of their emotional wellbeing, during the most traumatic of times.

"At the moment there is an appointment system and rigorous cleansing regime in place to ensure the centre is Covid-safe, especially as children being treated for cancer are more vulnerable.

"My understanding is the general philosophy is to engender a non-prescriptive and bespoke approach."

Northwich Guardian: The new centre has opened its doors and is currently operating in a Covid-secure way

He went on to say: "Parents - and members of the extended family - can turn up with or without their children.

"In normal times, they may want to talk to other parents going through a similar experience or just take time out to relax in the lounge or garden.

"Staff are there to keep the children occupied, from toddlers to teens, with lots of activities and games including a multi-sensory room, computer games and outdoor play area.

"There are structured sessions for families too, if that’s what they want, including counselling and workshops.

"How horrendous when a young person is diagnosed with cancer but how lucky we are to have this first class support centre on our doorstep."

Northwich Guardian: The new centre has opened its doors and is currently operating in a Covid-secure way

The charity is grateful to the community, organisations and businesses for their donations and fund-raising efforts over the years. There is no statutory income so The Joshua Tree relies on these generous donations as well as grant-funding.

To find out more about The Joshua Tree charity and to support its work, visit: thejoshuatree.org.uk.

The centre is happy to partner up with other charities that can make use of its facilities and has a meeting room available for use.