A YOUNG mother who has terminal skin cancer has helped launch a drive to reduce the risk of indoor tanning.

Sam Broadbent, 31, urged an audience of sunbed operatives to back Stockton Borough Council's campaign.

"I won't be around to see my two young sons become adults because nobody told me it was unsafe for me to use a sunbed. Please warn your customers about the risks," Mrs Broadbent told them at the launch of the drive, in Stockton Town Hall.

She described the campaign as "fantastic" and urged other authorities around the country to follow Stockton's example.

Rob Llewellyn, the council's principal environmental health officer, said the main aim was to raise awareness that some groups should avoid sunbeds and tanning booths because of the risk of melanoma.

While he wants co-operation, he also warned that legal action would be taken against anyone breaking health and safety regulations.

Backed by thousands of posters, leaflets, stickers and beermats, the campaign - called Develop A Tan: Nothing Else, is aimed at educating people about the risks of indoor tanning.

The council has also placed radio advertisements on Galaxy and Century as part of its campaign.

The adverts use Sam's powerful story of how she has bought 18th birthday cards for her two sons in advance because specialists have told her she is unlikely to make it to 35.

Kim Moore, who runs her own fitness and leisure centre in the town, said: "There is an awful lot of irresponsible tanning in Stockton.

"I know of one place which allowed a 14-year-old schoolgirl in her uniform to get on a sunbed. The industry needs to be better regulated."

Another industry representative said: "I had one woman who brought her under-age daughter in and lied about her age on the form. What can you do about that?"

Mr Llewellyn stressed that he did not want to close tanning salons but urged them to operate responsibly and follow a code of practice or face possible legal action from clients.