Rock star in cancer remission after drug trial

The lead singer of rock band The Alarm is in remission from an aggressive cancer thanks to an NHS drug trial.

Mike Peters had been forced to cancel a US tour earlier this year after being diagnosed with a fast-growing lymphoma called Richter’s Syndrome in April.

The frontman, of Dyserth, North Wales, has now been given the all-clear following experimental therapy at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester.

The 65-year-old said: "Having complete remission thanks to this trial has been incredible."

Medics now want to find a suitable donor so he can undergo a stem cell transplant to prevent the leukaemia taking hold again.

The singer, who has supported U2 and Status Quo on tour, was first diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) more than 29 years ago aged 36.

Five days before he was due to fly to Chicago for a 50-date US tour in April, he found a lump in his neck.

The singer was referred from the North Wales Cancer Centre to The Christie for a drug trial with targeted therapy called acalabrutinib alongside standard chemotherapy.

Although acalabrutinib is already approved for CLL, it has not been tested in combination with chemotherapy for Richter’s Syndrome.

Peters said it was "amazing" and he felt "fortunate" that he was in remission.

“I now need to find the right match for the stem cell transplant and, if it’s successful, and with the incredible help of the team at the Christie, endeavour to find a way to be cured once and for all," he said.

He also praised the “phenomenal support and prayers" from thousands of fans.

Professor Adrian Bloor, consultant haematologist at The Christie, said: “It is hoped that the combination of acalabrutinib with chemotherapy will be effective in treating Richter’s syndrome and stopping it coming back."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk