Late councillor 'broke silence' of cancer

Jason Smith, who died of pancreatic cancer, was described as "dignified and determined"

A councillor who dedicated his final months to raising awareness of pancreatic cancer has been praised for "breaking the silence" around the disease.

Jason Smith died earlier this month, just weeks after standing down as the councillor for Lemington in Newcastle.

The 50-year-old revealed his diagnosis in a council meeting last year and tried to raise awareness of the disease to "help save lives".

A spokesman from Pancreatic Cancer UK (PCU) said the charity is "hugely grateful" for Mr Smith's efforts.

Alfie Bailey-Bearfield, PCU's head of health improvement and influencing, said charity members were saddened to hear of Mr Smith's death.

He said that after his diagnosis, Mr Smith contacted the charity "determined to use his platform to help save lives".

He went on to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer in the hope that those with potential symptoms would seek medical advice.

Mr Bailey-Bearfield praised Mr Smith for taking the "brave decision" to speak publicly about his diagnosis, adding: "He was instrumental in securing a council debate on the disease and spoke movingly in the chamber, uniting representatives from all parties behind a motion to support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month.

"His support helped break through the silence surrounding the deadliest common cancer.”

Kind and dignified

Mr Smith, who was the leader of the Newcastle Independents Party, leaves behind a wife and four children.

Newcastle Council leader Nick Kemp said Mr Smith was "dignified and committed to serving the people of Lemington."

He added: "The speech he made in full council in November when he revealed his diagnosis with pancreatic cancer was delivered with honesty, humility, and dignity, and in doing so he did so much to raise awareness of the illness.

"The way he conducted himself in the face of such a personal challenge was testimony to Jason and his family."

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of common cancers

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of common cancers - fewer than seven per cent of those diagnosed survive beyond five years in the UK

Symptoms can include:

• Back or stomach pain

• Indigestion

• Changes to bowel habits

• Jaundice

• Unexplained weight loss

• Lack of energy

Pancreatic Cancer UK is urging anyone with unusual symptoms that persist for more than four weeks to seek medical advice.