Councillors unite in the fight against cancer

Councillor Ann Stott and Councillor Janet-Emsley

Councillors in Rochdale have put aside their party politics to stand united in the fight against cancer - one of the UK's biggest killer diseases.

Councillors Janet Emsley and Ann Stott have crossed the political divide in a great act of unity to show their support for World Cancer Day, which takes place on Saturday 4 February 2017.

The councillors have joined forces to inspire and encourage others in the borough to put aside their differences and stand strong together to help beat cancer sooner.

Councillor Janet Emsley, Rochdale Borough Council's cabinet member for culture, health and wellbeing, said: "Cancer is a devastating disease that doesn't discriminate between age, ethnicity or gender and it transcends party politics. We all know someone who has been affected by cancer so I am pleased to come together with my fellow councillors from all parties to encourage people in the borough to join us in support of World Cancer Day which is on Saturday 4 February."

Rochdale Borough Council is taking part in the campaign which supports charities; Cancer Research UK, CLIC Sargent, Bowel Cancer UK, Anthony Nolan, Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Care and Marie Curie, who have also joined forces, to make a bigger impact in transforming the lives of the millions of people affected by cancer.

Latest figures show one in two people born in the UK will develop cancer at some point in their lifetime.

In the borough of Rochdale 1,360 people of all ages were diagnosed with cancer during 2014. In 2015 around 285 people under the aged of 75 died from the disease.

Councillor Ann Stott, shadow portfolio holder for culture, health and wellbeing, said: "Whatever your motivation – to remember a loved one, celebrate people who have overcome the disease, or to rally in support of those going through treatment - World Cancer Day is a chance to play your part and help more people survive this terrible disease."

People across the borough of Rochdale can show their support by wearing a Unity Band or donating. The Unity Bands are made of two parts, knotted together, to symbolise strength in unity and the power of what can be achieved when people join forces. They'​re available from each charities website for a suggested donation of £2. All money raised from the Unity Bands will go towards the charities individual work.