AS one of the North-East’s most popular and trusted television presenters, Pam Royle has built her career by telling other people’s news.

She is much less comfortable at being the subject of the news herself, which is why she agonised over whether it was right to go public about her skin cancer diagnosis.

We understand that reticence but she is right to do so. In fact, as a public figure, who commands such respect in households across the region, we would argue that it is her duty.

By talking publicly about her cancer scare, Pam’s objective is to spread the word about how dangerous seemingly innocuous freckles and moles can be.

She does not seek public sympathy but she does want people to be more aware of the warning signs and to seek immediate medical advice if they have any concerns.

Had Pam delayed going to her doctor any longer, it may well have been too late because her melanoma had penetrated the second layer of skin. Hopefully, the surgery she has had is enough to stop the disease spreading, although she will require regular checks.

According to latest statistics, 2,500 people a year die of skin cancer in the UK and that figure could be significantly reduced with earlier intervention. Advances in treatment and research will be central to progress, but so will public education, which is why Pam’s message is so important.

As she says, if one person reads her story and their cancer is caught in time, her decision to put herself in the headlines will have been worthwhile.

In the meantime, we wish her well and hope that the news about her condition continues to be positive.