It was a moment to inspire when Professor Ray Powles wrapped his arms around two of his patients both proof of the miracle of modern medicine.

On his left was Europe's first ever bone marrow transplant success story, Ian Cuneen, and on his right was his 2,500th transplant patient, Trevor Woods.

The occasion was a joint celebration of the Royal Marsden's 150th anniversary and its Christmas party for 100 of its past and present patients and donors.

Ian Cuneen was seven years old when Prof Powles carried out the groundbreaking transplant in 1973.

Now 35, he is married with a family and living in Wolverhampton. His memories are hazy, but he does recall his parents living in a caravan in the grounds of the hospital.

Speaking to the Guardian at the party, he said: "I remember everything had to be sterilised before anyone could come into my room. For my parents it was a very stressful time."

His return to the hospital was overwhelming, but a chance to express his thanks. "If it wasn't for them, I would not be here," he said.

For Trevor, who underwent his transplant just five months ago, the limelight was unexpected.

The 42-year-old father of three, now getting stronger every day, was first diagnosed in November last year.

He said the nurses, who were presented with bouquets of flowers at the party, had been excellent during his stay.

Prof Powles who heads up the leukaemia and myeloma unit, was clearly moved. "It is quite overwhelming seeing all the patients together, particularly the long term survivors," he said.

"These patients are inspirational. When we first started, transplants were seen as something of a last ditch effort but they are now becoming so successful that often it is the first treatment a patient receives."

The Royal Marsden is the world's oldest cancer hospital with more than 30,000 patients each year being referred there from the UK and abroad, and to its sister site in Chelsea.

December 27, 2001 09:00