Our story through the decades: 45 years of supporting local people affected by cancer
For 45 years, Big C has provided cancer support services, funded world-class cancer research and raised millions of pounds. From our first cancer support initiatives in 1980 to the network of support centres, charity shops and research funding opportunities we have today, this timeline highlights Big C’s story and achievements.
1980s
Big C was founded in 1980 by David Moar MBE and Clive Bamford, setting out to improve cancer care across Norfolk and Waveney.
In 1983 Big C supported the opening of a new cancer care unit at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, marking one of the charity’s first major achievements.
1990s
In 1992 Big C supported the opening of a day care cancer centre at the James Paget Hospital, extending its reach to more local people affected by cancer.
By 1993 fundraising had reached £3 million, paving the way for future growth. In 1995 Big C opened its first retail shop on Castle Meadow in Norwich, helping to build community support that continues today. Theresa Cossey MBE and Gaye Youngman, who later went on to start LILAC (Ladies in League Against Cancer), were instrumental in setting up our charity shops.
In 1997 Professor Dylan Edwards was appointed as the first Chair of Cancer Studies at the University of East Anglia.
2000s
By 2005 Big C had raised £9 million over its first 25 years.
In 2006 the Big C Cancer Support Centre opened at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, a £1.6 million investment providing local services for anyone affected by cancer.
In 2007 a digital mammographic unit was funded at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, improving access to diagnostic technology.
2010s
In 2011 Big C funded Professor Colin Cooper’s move to Norwich Research Park to advance prostate cancer research.
The charity’s support network grew with new centres opening in Great Yarmouth in 2012 and King’s Lynn in 2013.
Big C contributed to the Bob Champion Research and Education Building in 2014 and supported the Quadram Institute in 2016 with £400,000 for cancer-related research.
By 2015, after 35 years, Big C had raised more than £23 million.
In 2019 the Nearer to Home appeal launched, using gifted premises to create a new cancer support centre close to Norwich city centre.
2020s
In 2020, during the Covid pandemic, Big C quickly adapted to launch its virtual support service, ensuring the charity was able to continue to support people affected by cancer.
In 2021 the charity committed £250,000 to the new Priscilla Bacon Hospice.
In 2023, thanks to the kind support of the local community with our Nearer to Home campaign, the new Norwich support centre on Dereham Road opened. The welcoming centre offers people a place to get support away from the hospital environment.
2023 also saw the launch of the Big C Health Academy to promote wellbeing, raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and highlight the importance of early diagnosis.
In 2024 a dedicated research fund for PhD students was established, continuing Big C’s longstanding commitment to investing in cancer research.
Now in 2025 Big C proudly celebrates its 45th anniversary, having raised over £50 million since its founding and supported countless local people affected by cancer.
Support
At our centres across the region, we offer support to anyone affected by cancer.
Browse
We can help you work through the maze of cancer information.
Fundraise
Fundraise by yourself, or
with family and friends, to raise vital funds for Big C.
Let’s keep in touch
Subscribe to our mailing list to receive news and updates from Big C.