TWO councils are to reconsider their policy on sunbeds in leisure centres following new advice.

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health has told local authorities it is "inappropriate" to make money from sunbeds after research showing the link with skin cancer.

Rossendale, Pendle and Blackburn with Darwen councils run leisure centres with sunbeds.

Steve Rigby, director of culture, leisure and sport for Blackburn with Darwen, said: "The operation of the sunbeds is governed by strict Health and Safety advice. However, the authority will consider the latest advice and review the provision of sunbeds."

A spokesman for Rossendale Council, which runs Haslingden Sports Centre, Haslingden Swimming Pool and Marl Pits swimming pool, said: "We give out clear instructions on how to use sunbeds and carefully monitor their use. I am sure it is something the elected members will want to discuss."

Hyndburn Council does not run any leisure facilities and those owned by Ribble Valley do not have sunbeds.

Pendle Council runs Pendle Leisure Centre, Pendle Wavelengths and the Seed Hill Athletics Centre. All the facilities offer sun beds.

Gary Hood, of Pendle Leisure Trust, which runs the facilities, said sunbeds were constantly monitored and operated within strict guidelines.

About 40,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the UK and 2,000 die from it.

Jenny Morris, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health's policy officer, said: "People should care about skin cancer because it can kill them. In the majority of cases it is preventable."