Mike Taylor, chairman of the BCUSG’s trustees said: “We all owe a huge debt to Tino who has been inspirational and hard working for all of those years.

“The substantial sums which he has helped to raise have made huge differences to many of those who have received cancer treatment at the RUH during the last few decades.

“Much of the equipment which he helped us to purchase will be in use for a number of years yet, so future and current patients are benefitting from his hard work. I will really miss his wise advice at trustees’ meetings and his boundless enthusiasm.”

Tino is not retiring completely, however, and says he will continue to help whenever needed at BCUSG fundraising events.

Tino said: "My time as chairman of the Trowbridge branch and vice chair of trustees of the BCUSG has been very rewarding over the years and with the outstanding support of my committee, I believe we have achieved a great deal.  It's a highlight every time that we can purchase new equipment for the RUH.

"Colleagues, friends and the public have always supported our fundraising events and have been extremely helpful when needed. Looking back, it has been a great time and I am extremely proud to have been associated with the BCUSG.”