Two Lichfield sisters have helped to launch a new campaign encouraging people to enjoy the sun safely.
Sisters Eleanor and Kate Young, from St Stephen’s School in Fradley, made sure they were covered in sun cream as the sunshine made a welcome appearance over the weekend.
A new initiative from Cancer Research UK and NIVEA SUN is aiming to raise awareness of the simple steps people can take to avoid burning and protect themselves and their family in strong sun. These include using a combination of shade, clothing and an ice cream scoop of at least factor 15 sunscreen, whether that’s in the UK or abroad.
Mum Paula Young, who works for Cancer Research UK, said: “I’m delighted my girls can help to spread the word. With all the unpredictable weather we’re experiencing it’s so easy to get caught out when the sun does decide to shine and the forecast indicates we haven’t seen the last of it yet.
“I always try and make sure we’re prepared with hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. And I tell the girls to cover up in strong sun and take care not to burn, but we’ve all learnt something new as part of this important awareness drive, so I hope it has an impact on encouraging children and adults alike to enjoy the sun sensibly.
“The sun has been playing a game of hide and seek this summer, but there’s no hiding from the fact that too much sun can be damaging. Not only does it lead to an increased risk of skin cancer, it can also cause premature ageing, wrinkles and leathery skin.”
Recent research from Cancer Research UK found that even though 82 per cent of people in the UK are aware that too much sun is the main cause of skin cancer, only 44 per cent use SPF 15+ sunscreen in strong sun, less than a quarter cover up and just 13 per cent spend time in the shade.
As well as encouraging people to enjoy the sun safely, the new campaign will help to raise millions of pounds for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work into skin cancer.
Paula added: “In the West Midlands and Staffordshire 870 people are now diagnosed with malignant melanoma each year, which is why we’ve joined forces with NIVEA SUN to raise vital awareness and funds for research.
“The recent poor weather has put a bit of a dampener on our summer, but in between the showers the sun is still making an appearance. So I’m pleased my kids could help to demonstrate, in such a fun way, how you can enjoy the sun safely and help to keep its rays at bay. Children’s skin is particularly delicate so it’s especially important to make sure they’re protected.
“Everyone looks forward to some sunshine and we all need some sun for our health, but the most important thing you can do for your skin is to take care not to burn, whether you’re at home or holidaying abroad.”
For more information on enjoying the sun safely visit www.sunsmart.org.uk.
