PEOPLE in the South West are being urged by Cancer Research UK to show their support for cancer patients as momentum builds towards World Cancer Day.

The charity is calling on men, women and children to take a small action by purchasing a Cancer Research UK ‘Unity Band’ and wearing it with pride to create a show of collective force on the day.

The wrist band is made of two parts which form a knot to represent strength in unity. They are available in a range of colours from all Cancer Research UK shops for a suggested donation of £2.

The Unity Band represents the power of people joining together to support research and crucial new discoveries which will help more people survive. And the money raised will help Cancer Research UK scientists to beat cancer sooner.

Marked on February 4, World Cancer Day is designed to raise awareness of cancer and to promote its prevention, detection, and treatment.

Karen Davis, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the South West, said: “If we unite; we will beat cancer sooner.

"Thanks to advances being made in research, a small donation can really make a big difference. Many of our success stories would not be possible without the commitment of our supporters, who fund the charity’s life-saving work.”

“So on February 4 we are calling on people in the region to unite and remember those lost to cancer, celebrate the survivors, and rally in support of those currently fighting cancer.”

More than three people are diagnosed with cancer every hour in the South West and with cancer incidence set to rise steeply by 2030, there’s still much more to do to ensure no-one’s life is cut short. Cancer Research UK researchers have played a key role in supporting landmark advances in cancer treatment including tamoxifen for breast cancer and cisplatin for testicular cancer.

She continued: “Every step we take towards beating cancer relies on every hour of research, every pound donated and every person who gets involved. February 4th is a chance for everyone to make a difference and be a part of something momentous.

“So we dearly hope people of all ages across the region will pick up a Unity Band or make a small donation to Cancer Research UK on World Cancer Day. A small gesture like this can make a truly big difference and help ensure that more families stay together for longer.”

Supporters can make a £3 donation to Cancer Research UK by texting UNITE to 70200**.

Cancer Research UK receives no government funding for its research but with help from the people of the South West the charity aims to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

To find out more visit www.cruk.org/worldcancerday or search #WeWillUnite