A SELKIRK fundraiser has seen her idea realised as the UK Parliament lit up yesterday as part of World Cancer Day.

Volunteer Elaine Monro wanted to mark the global awareness day in a big way and asked that Westminster was illuminated in pink and blue - the colours of Cancer Research UK.

Elaine is a member of charity's Selkirk fundraising committee, which has raised over £400,000 for life-saving work since the group first started.

She contacted John Lamont as her MP who made the request to the Speaker’s Office to light up the landmark

The local MP joined fundraiser Elaine and a cross-party group of politicians to show their support for people affected by cancer as the building was illuminated

Ahead of World Cancer Day, the Tory MP also led a debate in Westminster which called for greater support for cancer sufferers in the Borders who have to travel for treatment.

Mr Lamont said: “I was delighted to help Elaine in securing this fantastic opportunity to highlight the scale of the challenge on World Cancer Day and the role we can all play in the fight against the disease.

“Cancer affects us all – here in the UK and all around the world. We can all work together to beat it, not just the hard-working researchers and NHS staff who help to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

“Small actions really can make a big difference to the lives of people affected by cancer. That’s why I hope people in Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk will take inspiration from Elaine and show their support all year round.”

Elaine said: “I’m grateful for the support of John Lamont MP in helping to make my idea a reality on World Cancer Day.

“It was incredible to see Westminster illuminated in pink and blue and I hope it will help to shine a light on the need for people, communities and countries to unite to help save more lives.

“Cancer never sleeps, so the Cancer Research UK Selkirk Committee will never stop trying to think of new and creative ways to raise vital awareness and funds to beat this devastating disease.”