A RAMSBOTTOM woman who beat cancer has urged people to band together in support of World Cancer Day .

Rosie Hollis, who works at the Eagle and Child pub in Whalley Road, Ramsbottom, was diagnosed with cervical cancer five years ago and went under the surgeon's knife to remove a tumour.

The 29-year-old is now calling on residents to buy a Cancer Research UK ‘Unity Band’ and wear it with pride to create a show of collective force.

Rosie said: "I am so grateful for the treatment that saved my life. Now I want to do everything I can to urge people to fight back against this devastating disease.

"I was devastated when I was diagnosed with cancer but thanks to research and treatment, I’m still here today. That’s why I’m backing Cancer Research UK and encouraging everyone to get a Unity Band now."

Rosie, from Darwen, had been having irregular periods for around a year, but had assumed it was due to the effects of a contraceptive implant.

After mentioning the problem to her family GP, Rosie was referred for cervical screening and the results were abnormal. She was then referred for a colposcopy and a biopsy.

Just days later, Rosie was given the devastating news that she had cervical cancer.

She was warned from the outset that the treatment she faced could possibly affect her fertility.

She then faced the prospect of having her cervix removed as the surgeons were unable to detect how extensive the cancer was.

Rosie had to brace herself to wake up following surgery at Royal Preston Hospital with the possibility of having lost her ovaries, womb and fallopian tubes.

However, her womb and ovaries were left intact, and no further treatment was needed, but she had to spend 12 months off work with extreme exhaustion and depression.

Rosie is now fighting fit, enjoying life to the full and is engaged to her partner Andy.

Jane Bullock, Cancer Research UK spokeswoman for the North West, said: “If we unite, we will beat cancer sooner. Thanks to advances being made in research, a small donation can really make a big difference.

"Success stories like Rosie’s would not be possible without the commitment of our supporters, who fund the charity’s life-saving work.”

“Every step we take towards beating cancer relies on every hour of research, every pound donated and every person who gets involved."

World Cancer Day was held on February 4, but the bands can still be purchased from Cancer Research shops.