The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded its highest honour, an Honorary Membership, for distinguished cancer researchers and leaders to Norwich-based Professor Ann Barrett.

"Honorary Membership is reserved for distinguished men and women who have made significant contributions to the objectives of our Society," said ASTRO Chair David A. Larson, Ph.D., M.D., F.A.C.R. "I am honoured to present this award to an outstanding individual who, in the course of her career, has greatly advanced the specialty of radiation oncology."

Professor Barrett is currently the lead clinician for Oncology (Cancer) at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust and Foundation Chair of Oncology at the University of East Anglia Medical School.

Professor Barrett was a founding member of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, serving as that organisation's president from 1997 to 1999.

In addition to her appointment as Registrar and then Dean Elect of the Faculty of the Royal College of Radiologists, Professor Barrett is known as a superb clinician, clinical researcher, educator and author.

She is recognised as an international authority on paediatric radiation oncology, and has been active throughout her career in many professional organisations and clinical trial groups.

Professor Barrett was formally presented with her Honorary Memberships on Wednesday, October 9, 2002, at ASTRO'S 44th Annual Meeting in New Orleans, USA.

For more information on ASTRO please visit the Media Corner at www.astro.org/meetings