On 11th June, I teamed up with Cancer Research UK to issue a 'red alert' warning to local young people about the dangers of sunburn. 

At the Molewatch Clinic, Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign mascot, a giant mole, handed out information about skin cancer to MPs urging them to get the message out to their constituents that sunburn can double the risk of the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

It is vital to be aware of any changes on your skin - says the charity.  And it also advises anyone who notices a change in the size, colour or shape of an existing mole  to have it checked out by a GP – especially if they are fair skinned and/or have lots of moles.

Currently, malignant melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – is now the most common cancer in young adults aged between 15 and 34.

It’s so important for young adults and parents to take steps to protect their own skin and that of their children by covering up, spending some time in the shade and using sunscreen.

Attending Cancer Research UK’s Molewatch Clinic really highlighted for me how important it is to enjoy the sun safely and to avoid burning. Even minor sunburn causes permanent damage beneath the skin.

Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign encourages people to know their skin type and use the UV index to find out when they need to protect themselves. 

It offers guidelines on how to be sensible in the sun:

- S pend time in the shade between 11 and 3

- M ake sure you never burn

- A im to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses

- R emember to take extra care with children

- T hen use factor 15+ sunscreen

Also report mole changes or unusual skin growths promptly to your doctor.

For information on skin cancer and the Cancer Research UK SunSmart campaign visit: www.sunsmart.org.uk