A consultant at the Royal Preston Hospital is leading efforts to launch a support group for men with prostate cancer.

Consultant Oncologist Dr Alison Birtle is determined to break the taboo associated with prostate cancer which she said remains in the shadow of women's cancers, such as breast cancer, because it can be embarrassing for men to talk about it.

She is hoping to set up a support group in Morecambe Bay which she hopes to extend to the rest of the county.

"As prostate cancer can make men impotent they feel it effects their self image. Women are more vocal about talking about their problems, but when men do open up to talk they are fantastic at doing it," she added.

Prostate cancer kills 10,000 men across the UK each year.

Last year television steeplejack Fred Dibnah lost a three battle to the disease. About 50 per cent of men over 50 are estimated to being at risk of developing it.

Dr Birtle's comments came ahead of the second national prostate cancer conference which is being held today (Thursday) in London, delegates are expected call on the government to invest more in research and treatment. One of her patients, John Smith, 68, of Longridge Road, Ribbleton, said anyone in doubt should contact their GP.

Mr Smith was diagnosed with the disease eight years ago and under went radiotherapy, but is about to start hormone treatment as the cancer has returned.

"Don't be frightened of it, if I had not got check up I would be dead today," said the grandfather-of-two.

He urged any man who thought they might have the condition to get a check-up with their GP.