HELENSBURGH’S MP gave his backing to Cancer Research UK at a Westminster event in support of World Cancer Day.

Mr O’Hara met Cancer Research UK researchers and ambassadors at the event, learning about the charity’s research and how international collaboration is vital in beating the disease sooner.

Marked on Sunday, World Cancer Day is designed to raise awareness of cancer and to promote its prevention, detection and treatment.

Mr O’Hara said: “I’m calling on people across Argyll and Bute to join me by wearing a Cancer Research UK Unity Band and spreading the word on social media in support of World Cancer Day by using the hashtag #UnityBand.

“Whatever your motivation – to remember a loved one, celebrate people who have overcome the disease, or to rally in support of those going through treatment – World Cancer Day is a chance to get involved and transform the lives of millions of people who are affected by cancer.”

One in two people born after 1960 in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetime. Although survival has doubled since the early 1970s, Cancer Research UK is asking people to act now to help speed up progress and see more people survive the disease.