A SELKIRK charity fundraiser admits she's tickled pink by a decision for Westminster to light up for World Cancer Day.

Elaine Monro was invited to the Houses of Parliament in London in 2017 following the hugely successful launch of a Cancer Research tartan.

A scarf made from the eye-catching design was even worn by Leader of the House, Andrea Leadsom MP.

Now Elaine and the other cancer research committee fundraisers in Selkirk have arranged for the town hall and recently refurbished clock to be illuminated pink on February 4.

And following discussions with MP John Lamont, a request for lighting at Westminster has also been agreed.

Elaine told us: "The success of Selkirk Committee’s recent tartan scarf project gave me the idea to publicise World Cancer Day on a national scale.

“John Lamont has been a fantastic ambassador for our work on behalf of Cancer Research so it is no surprise that he came on board to support this initiative.

"It is great that buildings across the UK, from the Townhouse in Selkirk to the Houses of Parliament will be lighting up pink on February 4."

World Cancer Day, organised by Union for International Cancer Control, is used by cancer charities and campaigners across the globe to unite in the fight against cancer.

Charities in the UK including Cancer Research UK, Macmillan and Breast Cancer Care all encourage supporters to take part by selling unity bands.

The Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow MP confirmed this week that Elaine's request for the pink illuminations has been approved by both the House of Commons and Lords.

It is thought that this is the first time Westminster Palace will mark World Cancer Day in this way.

Welcoming the decision Mr Lamont said: “I am really pleased that Westminster will be recognising World Cancer Day in this way.

“I was more than happy to put in a formal request on behalf of Elaine and thought it was an excellent idea.

"I also hope to secure some time in Parliament to discuss the fight against cancer ahead of February 4.

“With any luck, lighting up the Houses of Parliament in Pink will help to raise awareness and funding for cancer charities in the UK.”