Young mothers learnt how to detect the early signs of breast cancer during a session run by a national cancer charity.

Women who attend weekly sessions for mothers under 25 at Underhill Children's Centre in High Barnet were visted by two “Boobettes” from charity CoppaFeel!, which educates young people about breast cancer.

Joanna Forest, 35 and Rowena Stanyer, 28, who both suffered from breast cancer in their early twenties, talked to young mothers about their experiences and the importance of getting any lumps checked out.

Ms Stanyer said: “I found a lump in my breast when I was 23, which grew over time. But I was misdiagnosed because of my age. It was finally removed when I was 25 – I was so lucky it was a slow acting cancer.

“I want young women to be more proactive in going to the GP and getting a correct diagnosis so they don’t have to go through what I did.”

Ms Forest added: “Cancer is a serious thing, but something can be done about it, especially if it is caught quickly.

“Cancer rates are low in young women, but if you find a lump in your breast it is best to check it out for peace of mind. Often a GP will tell you not to worry, which is what you want to hear, but it could be serious so it is best to get it checked out.

“Breast cancer should not be a taboo subject, if we talk about it, it makes it less scary”

Community support officer Saydie Mason, 28, who runs the class said: “I was delighted to be contacted by CoppaFeel! about running a session at the community centre.

“Everyone has a mum or an aunt who has suffered from breast cancer. Not many people know it can affect their cousin or sister too. It’s never something our young mums talk about, hopefully they will now."

One of the young mothers, Amy Baker, 23, said: “I’ve learnt it’s not just older people who can get breast cancer. This talk has definitely encouraged me to check myself so I know if anything is wrong, and tell my friends to as well.”