Thousands take part in summer Sun Safe campaign

The final event of the summer was held at Derby Arena this week

Hundreds of skin checks have been carried out as part of BBC Radio Derby's summer-long Sun Safe campaign.

The station has been campaigning to raise awareness of the dangers of sun exposure since 2015, in memory of presenter and Derby County commentator Colin Bloomfield, who died aged 33 from melanoma skin cancer.

Thousands of people across Derbyshire and East Staffordshire have been involved in this summer's campaign, with about 120 people being referred on for further treatment this year.

Executive producer Rachael Gilchrist said: "Thank you Colin Bloomfield for continuing to help save lives."

BBC Radio Derby presenter Colin Bloomfield died from skin cancer in 2015

About 15,000 primary school children from across the station's area have been given Sun Safe lessons.

Thousands of outdoor workers have also been offered free Sun Safe training to stay safe while at work through online courses from Skcin.

And about 600 people have attended skin education sessions, with about 200 receiving inspections from dermatologists at the final event at Derby Arena on Wednesday.

About 120 people like Greg Radage have been referred on for tests over the summer

Anyone with signs of skin cancer was asked to contact their GP for further investigations. Among them was Greg Radage.

He said: "I've got to go and see my own doctor - I've had melanoma before and they caught it on time, so I'm happy if they can catch this early enough, if it is melanoma.

"That's what I came down for - to make sure."

Hundreds of people visited Derby Arena for skin checks, including Jane Eaton

Also referred on for tests by the dermatologist was Jane Eaton, who said: "I'm glad I came. I'll be making an appointment with my GP.

"I didn't know about this, my daughter saw it on Facebook, so I'm pleased she let me know."

And Barry Barlow will also be seeing his doctor but was "not surprised" to hear he may be at risk.

Barry Barlow said he had been putting off talking to his GP

He said: "I would have seen the doctor eventually, but you know how you keep putting things off.

"When they say it is skin cancer you're going to be nervous about it but time will tell."

Alison Bloomfield, Colin's mum, said: "From the bottom of my heart I want to thank all BBC Radio Derby listeners for supporting the campaign.

"What has been achieved in my son's name is absolutely amazing, you're literally helping to save lives.

"I'm so proud of my son, and you all."