Derek has paid tribute to Tom Parker, from the band The Wanted, who sadly died after battling an aggressive brain tumour for 18 months.

Tom, 33, died surrounded by his family and bandmates on Wednesday (March 30th).

Derek met Tom in his role as chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Brain Tumours.

The APPG on Brain Tumours are campaigning for increased research of brain tumours and improved treatment, taking evidence from doctors, scientists, campaigners and patients like Tom.

Tom was diagnosed with inoperable stage IV glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain tumour, 18 months ago, when he was only 32 years old.

Despite this blow, movingly described in his documentary "Inside My Head", Tom has devoted his life since then to raising awareness of brain tumours, and to improving the care, treatment and survival rates of brain cancer patients. He arranged a star-studded charity concert at the Royal Albert Hall after learning how research and treatment lags behind that of other cancers.

Tom told a meeting of the APPG:

"I'm staggered they can find a cure for COVID-19 within a year but can't find better treatments and ultimately a cure for brain tumours for decades on end."

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. Approximately 16,000 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour in the UK every year and there are estimated to be over 60,000 people living with a brain tumour. Scientists still do not know what causes them, or what the risk factors are.

Derek commented:

"I had the great honour of meeting and working with Tom Parker during his battle to fight his brain cancer.

"Tom turned his battle into a campaign to highlight the lack of effective treatment and support for brain tumour sufferers and all those of us engaged in this area will respond with greater urgency and effort to improve the situation.

"Tom inspired me to step up my work to help cut through the barriers that stand in the way of real progress in the treatment of brain tumours.

"I extend my sincere sympathies to his wife and their two little ones."

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