Journalists at a weekly newspaper are urging readers to follow their lead in joining a cancer charity appeal.

Staff at the North Devon Journal all wore special wristbands to mark World Cancer Day, which took place on Thursday.

The Journal is encouraging readers to wear the ‘unity bands’, made from two parts, knotted together, to symbolise the power of what can be achieved when people come together.

The bands symbolise the first time Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer Care, Anthony Nolan and the Movember Foundation have joined forces to motivate people to support the cause.

North Devon Journal staff sporting the bands outside their offices

The bands are available from each charity in their own colours afor a suggested donation of £2, with all proceeds going towards the charities’ individual research projects and support services.

The NDJ’s campaign has been launched with reader Rachel Turner, 35, a breast cancer survivor.

Journal editor Lisa Templeton said: “The Journal team are enthusiastic supporters of this very important campaign and would encourage all our readers to become involved.

“Cancer is something which touches so many lives and, if our involvement and support can make a difference, we should do absolutely everything we can to join forces and beat cancer.”