There is a record number of instances of melanoma skin cancer in the UK; 20,800 cases are anticipated to be diagnosed this year.

According to data from Cancer Research UK, between 2007–09 and 2017–19, the incidence of melanoma rose by about one-third, from 21 to 28 cases per 100,000 individuals.

There was a 57% increase in those over 80 and a 7% increase in those between 25 and 49.

If you detect any strange changes to your skin, such as a new or changing mole, a sore that won't go away, or an area of your skin that seems abnormal, be careful in the sun and get in touch with your doctor.

According to Michelle Mitchell, CEO of Cancer Research UK, approximately nine out of ten melanoma cases that occur each year are avoidable and are brought on by excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

UV from the sun can damage DNA in skin cells and cause skin cancer.

​The charity advises people spend time in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm; cover up with clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protection sunglasses and a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars, applied often.

Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said: “Survival from cancers including melanoma continues to improve, demonstrating the substantial progress made possible by research.

“But it’s vital that people try to reduce their risk of getting the disease in the first place.

“Make sure to take care in the sun and contact your GP if you notice any unusual changes to your skin – whether a new or changing mole, a sore that doesn’t heal, or an area of your skin that looks out of the ordinary.

Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, compared to never being burnt

Dr Claire Knight, Cancer Research UK

“Spotting cancer early can make all the difference.”

According to the charity, younger people are more aware of the link between the sun and skin cancer than those who are older, who may have taken advantage of the “cheap package holiday boom” from the 1960s onwards.

​Other factors driving up cases include a growing and ageing population and improved awareness of the symptoms of skin cancer.

Figures show, however, that more people are surviving melanoma, with deaths expected to continue to fall.

Almost nine in 10 adults diagnosed with melanoma in England will now survive their disease for a decade or more.

​Dr Claire Knight, senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: “Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, compared to never being burnt.

“Whether you are enjoying the good weather abroad or here at home, it’s important to protect yourself from too much sun, especially if you burn easily.

​”Remember that sunburn doesn’t only happen when it’s hot – it can happen on cooler or cloudier days too.

​“The best way to protect your skin when the sun is strong is to use shade, clothing and sunscreen together.

“Seek shade in the middle of the day, cover up with a shirt that covers your shoulders, a hat and sunglasses and wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars. Make sure you put plenty on and reapply it regularly.”

Last month, experts told how the world’s first personalised mRNA cancer jab for melanoma – which also has the potential to stop lung, bladder and kidney cancer – is being tested in British patients.

The “gamechanger” jab, which offers hope of a cure, is custom-built for each person in just a few weeks.

A stage 2 trial of the jab, involving pharma firms Moderna and MSD, found it dramatically reduced the risk of the cancer returning in melanoma patients.

A final phase 3 trial is now running, led by University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH).