MOLES are being hunted at Whipps Cross University Hospital but not the type which live in the ground.

The dermatology team at the hospital checked staff and visitors for moles on the skin, which might indicate people have skin cancer.

They also gave advice on how to stay safe in the sun in a special clinic in the hospital canteen on June 30.

The hospital held the checks after dermatologists went to Parliament's annual MoleWatch clinic in Westminister to check out MPs.

They decided that Whipps staff should have the same treatment and gave all staff and visitors the opportunity to have their skin checked for the kind of moles which might mean skin cancer.

Consultant dermatologist Karen Gibbon said: "Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and most are caused by damage from ultraviolet rays in the sunlight and could be prevented if we protect ourselves from the sun.

"It is important people get to know their skin type and look out for any changes. We saw 65 people who were concerned about a mole. Most of these were nothing to worry about, but it is important that people know what to look for."

Dr Gibbon advised people to remember the ABCD rule, which helps remember the warning signs of cancer: l Asymmetry when the two halves of your mole do not look the same l Border if the edges of your mole are irregular, blurred or jagged l Colour the colour of your mole is uneven, with more than one shade l Diameter your mole is wider than 6mm in diameter. If you notice any of these signs, see your doctor straight away.