THE heat is on – and steps are being taken to ensure that visitors to next week’s New Forest and Hampshire County Show stay safe in the sun.

Experts from Macmillan Cancer Support will be on hand throughout the three-day extravaganza to raise awareness of how adults and children can protect their skin from harmful UV rays.

Spectators are welcome to visit the charity’s mobile unit with questions and concerns about skin cancer and how to cut the risk.

As reported in the Daily Echo, the New Forest has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the UK – mainly because people like to spend a lot of time outdoors.

But the show has plenty of shade for people who like to keep their cool.

Macmillan Cancer Support says it is visiting the event as part of a national campaign to ensure people stay safe throughout the summer.

Last year research revealed that 40 per cent of UK citizens strive to deepen their tan, despite the fact that getting painful sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of developing malignant melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

The number of skin cancer-related admissions to hospital in England has soared by 41 per cent in the past five years.

Mary Mountford-Lister, a Macmillan information and support specialist, said: “We will be advising people at the show on the importance of avoiding sunburn.

“While those with fair skin are most at risk we want people to understand that everyone needs to protect their skin from harmful rays.

“Children love being active in the sun and adults need to protect them from blistering sunburn that can increase the chances of developing skin cancer in later life.

“We will be offering information and support to let them know how to keep them safe.”

The Daily Echo-backed show at New Park, Brockenhurst, begins next Tuesday and is expected to attract at least 95,000 spectators from across the south.

Officially rated as one of the top ten agricultural shows in the country, the event is worth millions to the local economy.

Highlights of this year’s show include a twice daily appearance by the Household Cavalry which will stage its world famous Musical Ride.

The event will also feature international show jumping, plus shopping pavilions and more than 600 trade stands.