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 the new campaign by Stockton Borough Council.

"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," said Mrs Broadbent, speaking at the launch of the campaign in Stockton Town Hall.

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

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

While he wants cooperation he 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.

Radio adverts on Galaxy and Century have also been placed by Stockton council as part of their 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 Stockton, 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.

The campaign urges the following groups not use tanning equipment: under 16s, people with fair, sensitive skin; if you have a history of sunburn; you have a large number of freckles or moles; if you have a family history of skin cancer.

* The dangers facing sun worshipers see P14