A SPECIAL 'Basil' bus will be arriving in Wirral to give advice to people about cancer.

The bus, from Macmillan, will have a number of information specialists onboard who will give advice and inform people about the local cancer services and support.

Macmillan Cancer Support provides practical, emotional and personal support to people affected by cancer every year.

On Thursday, October 26 the bus will arrive in Catherine Street, Birkenhead from 10am to 4pm.

Whether you’re living with or beyond cancer, or are a loved one or carer for someone who is the service is open for everyone.

Macmillan Information and Support Specialist on the unit Debbie Smith said: “Knowing what changes to look for and when to see your doctor could make a real difference.

"Don’t be scared if you have symptoms.

"Get them checked.”

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Macmillan Cancer Support is encouraging people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the UK, with more than 54,000 cases reported every year.

It is more common in women over 50 and almost half of cases develop in women aged 65 and over. Men can also get breast cancer, but this is rare.

Debbie added: “Most breast changes are not caused by cancer but if you do notice anything that isn’t normal for you, see your doctor.

"If you do have cancer, the sooner it’s found, the more likely it is to be successfully treated.”

Macmillan say to make an appointment with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

  • a lump in the breast
  • a change in the size or shape of the breast
  • dimpling of the skin or thickening in the breast tissue
  • a nipple that’s turned in (inverted)
  • a rash (like eczema) on the nipple
  • discharge from the nipple
  • swelling or a lump in the armpit.

For support or a chat about breast cancer call Macmillan Cancer Support free on 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk