FREE cancer support and advice is being on offered in the region.

This month is Bowell Cancer Awareness month and Macmillan Cancer Support’s mobile information and support service will be bringing cancer information specialists to both areas. Bowel cancer is the UK’s fourth most common cancer. However, it is also treatable and the earlier it is diagnosed the easier it is to treat.

Macmillan’s Cara Connolly said: “Knowing what changes to look for and when to see your doctor could make a real difference. Don’t be scared or embarrassed and don’t ignore them if you have symptoms. Get them checked.”

Symptoms include: bleeding from the bottom, blood in the stools for three weeks of more, looser stools or diarrhoea that lasts for four weeks or more, pain or lumps in the stomach or back passage, losing weight for no reason, feeling tired and feeling like you have not emptied the bowel properly after going to the toilet.

The mobile unit will be at Market Place, Durham, on April 17, from 9am to 4pm; Tesco Express Bishop Auckland on April 18, from 9am to 4pm; Villiers Street, Hartlepool, on April 19, from 9am to 4pm; the Broadclose car park near Argos, Flemming Place, Peterlee on April 20, from 9am to 4pm; and High Street East, Redcar, on April 21, from 9am to 4pm. Alternatively, visit macmillan.org.uk or call0808-808-0000.