A LAWYER is planning to shave his head in support of his sister who has been diagnosed with secondary breast cancer.

Bill Barton, from Rawdon, is taking on the challenge for the second time - he also had his head shaved in early 2017 after Gillian Cooney received her first breast cancer diagnosis.

He decided to repeat the process after learning that the cancer had returned. He is hoping not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness of the challenges people with secondary breast cancer face.

Bill, who runs Barton Legal and is a former President of Leeds Law Society, raised £6,381 with last year’s head shave and in September he will repeat the process in aid of Breast Cancer Haven, Yorkshire, once again.

He feels the fact he has to take on the same challenge so soon will help highlight the reality for many people dealing with breast cancer and a secondary diagnosis.

He said: “I want to remind people of the important role Breast Cancer Haven plays in being there for the long term help and support of all men and women with breast cancer.”

Breast Cancer Haven Manager, Debra Horsman added: “People with secondary breast cancer can often face different challenges to those faced during their original treatment, but here at Breast Cancer Haven we have a programme dedicated to supporting people with a secondary diagnosis.”

The charity, which opened in Leeds ten years ago, offers a range of free services, including a monthly Secondary Support Group, and a tailored package of emotional, physical and practical support to help women cope with the complex challenges they face.

It costs around £1,000 to provide the full programme for each visitor, and Bill hopes to raise enough to fund the service for two people. For more details or to donate visit www.justgiving.com/william-barton3. Anyone who has been affected by breast cancer, please call Breast Cancer Haven on 0113 284 7829 or visit breastcancerhaven.org.uk.

Launching last year’s fundraiser Bill said: “I’m reaching out for people to donate as much as they possibly can and, whilst they might not have a sister like I do, they may have a mother, grandmother, aunt, colleague or friend who would benefit from the amazing work carried out by the specialist team at Breast Cancer Haven, Yorkshire.”