ST HELENS Council has joined forces with Breast Cancer Campaign to raise awareness of its Wear it Pink event.

This Friday local schools, colleges and businesses are encouraged to don an item of pink in support of the charity, and to each donate £2 to fund research.

Last year the council raised £800, and it is hoping to raise even more cash this year with plans for a pink-themed raffle and cake sale.

St Helens Council leader, Marie Rimmer said: “It’s time to beat breast cancer.

"Every year in the UK 48,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women.

"Although it is rare, men can also suffer from breast cancer – around 300 are diagnosed each year.

“We would like to encourage everyone in St Helens and throughout the country to support Wear it Pink on October 28 to raise vital funds for breast cancer research.”

To take part Freephone 0800 107 3104, visit wearitpink.co.uk and register to receive your free fundraising pack.