A TEAM of medical experts will be taking to Sandbanks beach in Poole later this month to give out advice and offer free skin cancer checks.

Specialists from Poole and Christchurch Hospitals’ derma-tology units are hoping to boost awareness of the dangers of over-exposure to the sun.

Visitors and locals packed out Bournemouth and Poole’s beaches over what turned out to be the warmest weekend of the year so far.

The temperature at Hurn soared to nearly 30C on Sunday and the south coast has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the UK.

Dr Caroline Morgan, skin cancer lead at the trust, said: “The majority of skin cancers are caused by excess exposure to the sun, and five or more episodes of sunburn at any age doubles your risk of melanoma.

“But preventing the risk of skin cancer is simple – take sensible precautions in the sun.”

Nearly two-thirds of Poole Hospital’s dermatology depart-ment patients are treated for skin cancer and sun damage.

More than 120 new patients a year are treated for melanoma, a cancer that usually starts in the skin.

Juliet Hately, skin cancer nurse specialist, said: “It’s remarkable to think that more people die of skin cancer in the UK every year than in Australia.

“Melanoma is now the second most common cancer among the 15 to 39 age group in the United Kingdom. “Weather like this can be fleeting in the UK and while it’s normal to want to take advantage of the sunshine, it’s really important to take precautions in the sun.”

To have your skin checked or to find out more about skin cancer and sun awareness, meet the team at Sandbanks beach between 10am and 4pm on Thursday, July 25.

For more information, or to upload a smartphone UV app, visit the British Association of Dermatologists’ website at bad.org.uk

Staying safe in the sun

Slip on a shirt – covering up is the best form of protection. Wear good quality clothing that doesn’t let the light in or that has sun protection factor (SPF).

Wear a hat that covers your face, ears and neck and put on UV protective sunglasses 

On sunny days, step out of the sun before skin has the chance to redden or burn and seek out the shade between 11am and 3pm.

Keep babies and very young children out of direct sunlight n Slap on the sunscreen – look for at least factor 30 with the UVA circle logo and/or four or five UVA stars; apply 30 minutes before going out in the sun and reapply every two hours, and after swimming and towel drying.