October 21, 2026 - 179 views
Nearly 100 men have received free prostate cancer tests at a community health event in Llandudno, aimed at helping identify potential problems before symptoms develop.
The screening session took place at Ty Hapus Community Centre in Ffordd Penrhyn on Tuesday, 21 October, and was open to men aged between 40 and 80 living in the Tudno and Mostyn wards.
The event was funded through the Pride in Place programme and delivered by the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust, providing free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and an opportunity for men to learn more about their prostate health.
Neil Ackers, chairman of the North Wales Cancer Support Group, said almost 100 men had taken advantage of the opportunity, with results helping to identify those who might need further investigation through their GP.
He said almost 90 per cent of the men attending the support group who had shared their experiences had no symptoms when they were diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Many had previously attended PSA testing events, he added, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and making testing accessible within local communities.
Mr Ackers said: “Early identification and appropriate follow-up can make a real difference and can potentially save lives.”
He also encouraged anyone concerned about their PSA results, or looking for information and emotional support, to contact the North Wales Prostate Cancer Support Group.
The event received a positive response from local men. One attendee said: “I’ve taken 10 minutes out of my day for this; it’s a no brainer and fantastic that it’s free.”
Another said they had booked an appointment after seeing a friend go through prostate cancer, adding that men should take an active interest in their health.
Jim Jones, chairman of the Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board for Tudno and Mostyn, said the event showed how funding could support projects identified as important by local residents.
He said working with organisations such as the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust had helped bring prostate cancer awareness and testing directly into the community.
Jayne Black, deputy chair of the neighbourhood board and manager of Ty Hapus, said more than 90 men had been screened.
She said the programme was about improving not only neighbourhoods but also the health and wellbeing of the people who live in them.
Bangor Aberconwy MP Claire Hughes also welcomed the initiative, saying free testing in Llandudno was an example of how community-led projects could help people access health services.
The event was supported through the UK Government's Pride in Place programme, which has allocated Conwy up to £20 million over ten years, with up to £2 million a year available for projects chosen by local residents.
In Tudno and Mostyn, the programme supports initiatives intended to improve quality of life, health and wellbeing, and opportunities for local people.
