A Pontypool breast cancer survivor is urging other women not to ignore the signs and catch the illness in its early stages.

Marianne Richards, 81, developed cancer 14 years ago and said she is now clear thanks to the treatment and support she received and her early diagnosis.

It is currently Breast Cancer Awareness month and she contacted the Argus after reading more Gwent women than ever are surviving breast cancer thanks to better screening, treatment and a successful campaign to make them aware of symptoms and the benefits of early diagnosis.

We revealed the death rate from the disease in the area is falling faster than that for Wales as a whole, and Mrs Richards was full of praise for the staff who supported her during her illness.

She developed the disease at the age of 67 and went for a screening before she had even developed a lump.

"I just felt uncomfortable, like there was something wrong, and wasn’t surprised when I learnt I had cancer," she said.

"My neighbour was going for an x-ray so I went with her and it was me that got a letter back not her.”

Mrs Richards had a mastectomy at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, and was in and out of hospital for 14 years before being given the all clear earlier this year.

She advises other women who find themselves in the same position not to delay taking action.

“If they think there’s anything wrong they should get themselves seen as soon as possible.”

Mrs Richards is a former nurse and participated in a variety of voluntary work before she became ill, including setting up Caerwent Youth Club and involvement with Scouts and Neighbourhood Watch.