Mother launches charity

Annie Middleton's network of friends and family helped her in the battle

A single mother of two who contracted breast cancer before she was 30 is to launch a new charity on Tuesday.

Annie Middleton from Bath was diagnosed with the condition three years ago.

The 33-year-old says she hopes Modern Amazons will raise awareness and inspire others to gain something positive from the experience.

Ms Middleton said: "I was terrified when I heard and I have two small children as well.

"It was very frightening but as time went on and I went and had treatment and surgery and had the support of amazing friends and family, I realised it was an experience that actually long term I was going be to okay."

On Tuesday Ms Middleton was due to launch the Modern Amazons charity with a big fundraising party in Bath.

Each year almost 41,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK although the risk of women under the age of 40 developing it is relatively rare.

Annie, whose cancer is now in remission has the backing of pop star Midge Ure and photographer Nigel Riches.

Next year a photographic exhibition of women who have survived and thrived will tour hospitals around the UK.