A year ago, Ellen Widdup, of Woodbridge, was diagnosed with melanoma in situ – the very earliest stage of melanoma.

It was malignant and removed by excision, but only because she was extremely vigilant about checking her skin and noticing mole changes.

“I would urge anyone who notices any changes – however small – to see their GP and insist upon a referral to a specialist for a mole check,” she said.

“I was an irresponsible teenager – one who sunbathed a lot and did not take enough care of my skin. I’m fair and freckly and so fall in a high risk category.

“It’s only as an adult you really realise the folly of your youth but I have been extremely lucky that my lesson was not more painful. My skin cancer was caught early and was treatable.

“I hope these figures show everyone – but young people in particular – how prevalent this type of cancer is.

“There is a lot that can be done to protect your skin and lower your risk. No sun tan is worth the frightening experience of being told you have cancer.”