BY JACK WELCH

WHEN living in a county as inherently rich in natural attractions as this, it is perhaps easier to feel invincible from the dangers which the more than welcome sun brings to Dorset.

The issue itself is not a problem of awareness, given that cancer itself is approached in most conversations and highlighted frequently in the media. Instead, it is how many of us, and especially those under 25, can take for granted the serious risks involved when it comes to cases like skin cancer.

In research findings released by the Teenage Cancer Trust, at least 18 per cent of people aged 13 to 24 said they avoided sun cream in the hope they would catch a better tan and over a third believed that the sun would not damage their skin.

These findings reveal the extent of naivety which young people are prepared to put their own health at risk to feel better.

Statistically, from Cancer Research UK, those over 60 are more likely to contract one of the strains, but that is not to say a condition is unlikely develop over time when the skin is damaged.

However, the new findings also remind skin cancer is the third most common strain for those under 24, meaning decisions about our sun bathing times should not be taken lightly when younger.

The facts released should not scare those away from enjoying the sun, but a reminder to consider the risks when chasing that tan.