Ronan Keating supporting Bolton Market for Cancer Research UK roadshow

The singer, who first shot to fame with Boyzone in the 90s has leant his weight behind a Cancer Research UK roadshow that will be taking place at the market tomorrow.

Ronan will not be appearing at the event as reported incorrectly in the paper today and earlier online.

The roadshow was launched in 2006 and supported by the Marie Keating Foundation, named after Ronan's mum who died from breast cancer.

Cancer Research UK nurses will be at the event to provide information.

Ronan Keating said: “It’s more important than ever that people know to contact their GP if they notice any changes to their bodies that are unusual or persistent, and that there’s lots we can all do to help reduce the risk of cancer.

“The roadshow helps to get these messages out to people as they go about their daily lives in town centres, shopping malls and community centres.

"My family and I are very proud to support the Cancer Research UK Cancer Awareness Roadshow and we think our mum would be pleased with the work we are doing.”

Ronan Keating

The nurses can talk to visitors about ways to reduce their risk of cancer by making positive health changes like stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and eating a healthy, balanced diet.

They can also help people to identify steps they feel able to take and signpost towards free services to support them.

They can provide information about cancer screening, where relevant too.

With Covid-19 having caused disruption to cancer services across the UK, including impacting screening and diagnosis, conversations like this are more vital than ever.

It may be more difficult for some people to get an appointment with their GP right now, but it’s so important to keep trying.

Visitors can access the roadshow anytime on the day to pick up information and speak with the nurses or schedule a repeat visit to get ongoing support.

Keeping the public and staff safe is a top priority and the roadshow will have a range of social distancing and hygiene measures in place, in line with government guidance.

A Cancer Research UK North West Roadshow event

Cancer Research UK senior cancer awareness nurse in the North West, Sandra Howard said: “At a time when the world feels very different for many of us, it’s more important than ever that we continue to raise awareness of cancer.

“We are looking forward to talking to lots of people from Bolton about the steps they can take to help reduce their risk through changes like stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake and keeping a healthy weight.

"Experts estimate around four in 10 cases of cancer could be prevented each year in the UK largely through changes like these.

“Cancer hasn’t stopped because of the pandemic and it’s vital that people continue to seek help for any unusual signs or symptoms.

"Treatment is far more likely to be effective when it’s spotted at an early stage, which is why it’s so important to listen to your body and to tell your doctor if you notice a change that isn’t normal for you.”

One topic that the nurses are keen to draw attention to is how to stop smoking as May 31 is World No Tobacco Day.

Sandra said: “If you smoke, stopping is the best thing you can do for your health.

"Using prescription medication and support from your local free stop smoking service you’re around three times more likely to quit than going it alone.

“Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist or call the NHS Smokefree helpline on 0300 123 1044 to find out what will work for you.”

Around 50,000 people visit one of Cancer Research UK’s four Cancer Awareness Roadshows each year.

To find out more about how to reduce the risk of cancer and detect it early, visit cruk.org/prevent or cruk.org/spotcancerearly.