A SIMPLE saving challenge is set to give a boost to the fight against women's gynaecological cancers.

National support charity GO Girls, which is based in Dorchester, is marking Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month this March by urging people to get involved with the One Million 5p Challenge.

The charity wants to raise £50,000 to support the funding of five awareness campaigns to educate women about the five gynaecological cancers: ovarian, cervical, endometrial, vulval and vaginal.

The 5p challenge campaign is being supported by Porter Dodson Solicitors, who kickstarted proceedings with a donation of £500.

The One Million 5p Challenge involves saving an old recycled bottle and filling it up with 5ps. Just download a label from the GO Girls website (www.gogirlssupport.org/5p-challenge) and attach it to your bottle. When you’ve filled the bottle send the funds raised to GO Girls.

“This is something everyone can get involved in – we hope old and young alike will take part. A 500ml bottle will take approximately £30 worth of 5 pence pieces, so as soon as you have filled one bottle, you can start again – it’s that simple,” said Jen Barron, Head of Strategy.

58 women receive a diagnosis of a gynaecological cancer and 21 women die from a gynaecological cancer every day.

Diane Oxberry, well known weather presenter, recently passed away from ovarian cancer.

Jen added: “Sadly, there are many more like Diane out there – both those who are going through treatment and those who have passed away from the disease. We want to raise awareness as this is an area of health that is often shrouded in taboos and which often receives much less funding than other cancers."

Partner at Porter Dodson Scott Bowley, said “This is an incredible idea – simple – and one that everyone can get involved in – we are hoping all businesses and residents in Bridport will support us. We are delighted to be a corporate partner with GO Girls this year.”

Hilary Maxwell, chairman of GO Girls said: “If everyone who lives in Bridport was able to fill a 500ml recycled bottle with 5p’s, we’d raise over £300,000. This would help GO Girls to raise awareness and educate future generations about all gynaecological cancers and set up a helpline. We know it’s a big challenge, but it is one everyone can get involved in. After all, what can you really do with those fiddly 5p’s? Wouldn’t this make Bridport proud and it would certainly put Bridport on the map.”