THE Twin Sails Bridge is being lit up purple this November as part of a national campaign to bring awareness of a disease. 

BCP Council is lighting up the distinctive bridge in purple this month to remember those who have died from pancreatic cancer. 

The authority is hoping that by joining the campaign, it will encourage people who may have early signs or symptoms to speak with their doctor. 

Public awareness has always been low and more than half of people asked know very little, if anything at all, about the dangers and effects of the disease, according to the charity Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Bournemouth Echo: Twin Sails Bridge

Less than seven per cent of people with pancreatic cancer will survive beyond five years in the UK.

In Dorset, figures show there were 199 reported cases of pancreatic cancer, with 168 deaths during a one-year period. 

Indigestion, stomach or back pain, unexplained weight loss and jaundice are some of the symptoms commonly linked with 

Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, said: “We’re proud to be supporting such a worthy cause and pleased to be a part of a powerful national campaign. 

“The act of lighting up the Twin Sails Bridge gives us the opportunity to remember those that have sadly lost their lives to this disease, as well as the enduring stresses their friends and families go through and pay tribute to those who are facing their respective ongoing battles. 

“It is really important to encourage people to speak to their doctors and seek the support they need, signposting them to the help and information required, so we hope by joining other well-known landmarks across the country, we can highlight this.” 

Anna Frodsham, from Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: “The act of lighting up a prominent landmark enables local communities to shine a spotlight on a disease that deserves a lot more attention. 

“We hope that by publicising light-ups across the UK, it will encourage people to find out more about pancreatic cancer and its symptoms, so we can save more lives. 

“We believe something as simple as illuminating a landmark can really help raise awareness, and the Twin Sails Bridge provides us with a fantastic opportunity to do this.”