Charity hopes 'Big Bum' fundraiser will attract hundreds

The Big C Cancer charity works to educate and engage people on the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer

A Norfolk cancer charity is organising a two-day fundraiser to highlight the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer.

The Big C cancer charity wants to raise awareness of the disease during its weekend events in Gorleston and Great Yarmouth.

It has partnered with Freshly Greated, a community-led arts organisation, and Great Yarmouth artist Matthew Harrison.

Cath Watts, the charity's nutritionist and health academy lead, said: "We very much hope that this fresh initiative really helps people understand the importance of looking after themselves."

The charity will be at St Mary Magdalene Church, in Gorleston, later and Cobholm Primary Academy, in Great Yarmouth, on Sunday.

One of the attractions is the 'Big Bum' inflatable bowel, which people can walk through.

Amy Goreham, a member of the charity's health academy team, said: "We create events like Freshly Greated this weekend where we raise awareness about cancer signs and symptoms.

"We also offer support to anyone affected by cancer both through nutrition advice [with] our nourish and nurture programme and through our physical activity programme."

The charity offers support away from a clinical environment and has seven cancer support and information centres across Norfolk.

Ms Watts, who supports people before, during and after cancer treatment, said: "We very much hope that this fresh initiative really helps people understand the importance of looking after themselves, and understanding the signs and symptoms of cancer and knowing what to do if something doesn’t seem right."

The charity estimates about 500 people will attend the events on each day.