Banbury Town Hall has changed its lights to purple in support of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day.

The event is set for November 21.

This move is part of the #PurpleLights initiative, encouraging buildings across the UK to illuminate purple around this date.

Banbury Town Council, known for backing the fight against pancreatic cancer, is using this gesture to highlight various ways the public can contribute.

This includes making donations to organisations like Pancreatic Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK.

November is designated as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, with the 21st specifically marked as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day.

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to identify in its early stages.

This is because it often shows no symptoms initially.

However, certain factors such as age, smoking, obesity, and diabetes can heighten the risk.

Pancreatic Cancer UK reports that half of the people diagnosed with this disease die within three months of their diagnosis.

The organisation is committed to fostering breakthroughs in research to ensure better diagnosis and care for those affected.

Raising awareness through initiatives like #PurpleLights helps support these organisations.

The campaign is backed by Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Action, and Planets Cancer Charity.

Banbury residents are urged to remain vigilant about pancreatic cancer symptoms.

These may include indigestion, stomach or back pain, unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite, and jaundice, which is yellowing of the eyes and skin.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms and concerned about their implications should consult their GP.

The purple lights at Banbury Town Hall will remain until November 23.

For further inquiries, residents can email info@banbury.gov.uk.

Updates on council initiatives and events can be followed on Banbury Town Council's Facebook page and on Instagram at @banburyevents.