Players at Middlesex County Cricket Club have been screened for possible signs of skin cancer to raise awareness of their heightened risks of developing the disease.

The club has partnered with community healthcare provider Portland Clinical to screen both the men’s and women’s first team players, with Director of Community Dermatology Natalie Fisher joined by colleague Louise Griffiths and Managing Director Ian Yuill for screenings.

The screenings come after England cricketer Sam Billings spoke out about his skin cancer journey this Skin Cancer Awareness Month, with players at an increased risk due to continued sun exposure.

Peter Waxman, Head of Medical Services at Middlesex County Cricket Club, said: “Sam’s story shows how important it is for our players to have regular checks and understand the risks we face. 

“Having regular and in-depth skin screenings, and putting on some sun cream, really is essential. And that applies at both the elite and grassroots levels. 

“The entire squad is thankful to Natalie and Ian from Portland Clinical, and everyone else involved for coming along to see us – and helping us really shine a light on the importance of skin screening among professional athletes.”

Men’s captain Toby Roland-Jones said it was crucial for players to understand the importance of skin protection.

He said: “It’s really important for us to make sure we take care of ourselves and understand this is an important part of that - and it’s great to be involved in the education of that as well.”

At least 100,000 new cases of skin cancer are reported every year, while 60% of UK adults have had a skin condition in their lives. 

Right-handed batter Cordelia Griffith said she will now be wearing sun cream more regularly after learning the dangers.

“Because we spend so much time in the sun – we’re out here every day – it’s good to get checked out and make sure everything’s ok," she said.

“I’m not a big wearer of sun cream, so having more awareness of how damaging it can be is good.”

Natalie Fisher, who is also a skin cancer ambassador for Melanoma UK, added: “The pandemic and its subsequent strain on the health service has seen an untold number of skin cancer cases go unnoticed. 

“As such, events like these are invaluable in ensuring any moles or lesions of concern can be spotted at the earliest opportunity. 

“Screening each player takes a matter of minutes and could have a huge impact on their lives. I would implore all sports clubs up and down the country to take that time out and get screening today.” 

Portland Clinical offers screening services to sports clubs and businesses nationwide, as well as short training sessions on how people can check themselves at home and look after their skin.

Billy Boulos, co-founder of LifeJacket Skin Protection, the official sunscreen brand of professional cricketers and partner of the Professional Cricketers’ Association, was also present to give advice to players and show them their skin damage under a UV camera, alongside representatives from Melanoma UK.

Diane Cannon, Melanoma UK Corporate Partnership Director, said: “Our partnerships with Portland Clinical and LifeJacket Skin Protection are all about reaching more people across the UK, detecting cases and educating them about the risks of skin cancer.

“This month’s screenings are a brilliant example of that and shine a light on a topic many cricket fans may not be aware of.” 

Billy added: “Unfortunately there are more sports stars like Sam who have experienced melanoma – and others could suffer too should we not get the message out there to a wider audience about the importance of everyday skin protection, especially during summer."

Organisations looking to host a screening day for their team can find out more at www.portlandclinical.co.uk/skin.