South Shields Town Hall will turn purple for World Cancer day

The historic building will be illuminated as dusk falls on Thursday aimed at raising awareness of how everyone – as a collective or as individuals – can do their part to reduce the global burden of cancer.

Councillor Moira Smith, lead member for public health and wellbeing at South Tyneside Council, said: “We are really pleased to show our support by lighting up South Shields Town Hall for World Cancer Day.

“So many people are touched by cancer but greater awareness and education can lead to a positive change in helping to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals, families and communities.

“This could range from making simple lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of cancer and that of their loved ones to understanding that early detection can save lives.

“People can also help to fund lifesaving research or support for those affected by this terrible disease.”

The Town Hall has, in the past, been lit up in blue to mark World Diabetes Day.

Local charity champion, Ann Walsh, organises Jarrow’s annual 22-hour Relay for Life and has helped to raise more than £400,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Last year’s event raised more than £71,000 and involved more than 600 people taking to the track at Monkton Stadium.

She said: “It is wonderful that South Shields Town Hall will be lit up. By backing campaigns such as World Cancer Day we can all take a stand against this disease.”

This year’s Cancer Research UK Jarrow Relay for Life, which is in its 10th year, will take on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 July, at Monkton Stadium, with an aim of raising £100,000.

If successful in its target, the event will have raised half a million pounds in ten years.

Anyone interested in getting involved can contact Ann Walsh on 07946 351 423 or email [email protected] for further information.

For further information about World Cancer Day visit www.worldcancerday.co.uk