A TOP Derbyshire nurse is hoping a television plot about cervical cancer will help save lives.

Linda Syson-Nibbs, nurse consultant for NHS Derbyshire, has welcomed the new EastEnders storyline which sees Tanya Jessop being diagnosed with the disease.

Ms Syson-Nibbs said one in five Derbyshire women did not go for regular cervical screening tests, putting them at risk.

Screening can detect cells which may develop into cancer. Women can then get treatment which prevents the disease 75% of the time.

Latest figures show that 39,622 Derbyshire women aged 25 to 64 did not take up their screening invite last year.

Ms Syson-Nibbs said: "We urge anyone who sympathises with Tanya's situation over the coming months to take notice of their invite letter and come along to an appointment.

"If women are worried or embarrassed about the test, or feel awkward about attending because they have ignored previous letters in the past, we would encourage them to talk to their local nurse or family doctor."