NEW figures have revealed that four in ten people living in the south west ignore the bowel cancer screening test.

On average, only 62 per cent of people living in the south west are taking advantage of the test that has the potential to save lives.

Although in Dorset, the uptake figure is the highest in the region, with 65 per cent, Bowel Cancer UK is encouraging people to take part in the screening programme.

The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme can detect bowel cancer at an early stage in people with no symptoms when it is easier to treat and there is a greater chance of survival.

If you're registered with a GP and aged 60-74, you will receive a test in the post every two years.

Deborah Alsina, MBE, chief executive for Bowel Cancer UK, said: "It's quite simple, bowel cancer screening saves lives.

"I would encourage everyone who's over 60 to take the test, and for those who are younger to encourage their loves ones over 69 to complete it.

"It could save yours or your loved ones life.

"Bowel Cancer UK joined with Beating Bowel Cancer to create a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

"We're determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by the disease.

"Taking part in screening is the best way to get diagnosed early when treatment is more likely to be successful. Early diagnosis really does save lives."

The charity is also giving away free wristbands to raise awareness of the charity and disease, which can be got through bowelcanceruk.org/free-bowel-cancer-uk-wristband