Tory MSP reveals cancer diagnosis

Conservative MSP Edward Mountain has revealed his bowel cancer diagnosis in a video to promote Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.

The Highlands and Islands MSP, who turned 61 last month, has been receiving radiotherapy and chemotherapy for the disease over recent months.

He said he expected to finish the course of treatment at the end of next month.

In an honest video posted on social media, he urged people to get any symptoms checked to ensure cancer is “dealt with before it becomes a problem”.

He said: “Sometime in your life, you’ll be sent the poo sticks, as I call them, make sure you use them. They’re really simple and they’re a really good way of detecting bowel cancer early.

“But there are other symptoms that you can have, like blood in your poo – which is what I had – a change in your bowel habits, tiredness, unexplained weight loss and also a lump in your tummy.

“It’s really important if you identify any of those symptoms, go and see your doctor because if you catch this early it can be treatable, as I found out.”

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross was among the well-wishers, thanking Mountain for “sharing this really important and brave message”.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf tweeted: “Please listen to [Mountain] who is encouraging you to be aware of symptoms of bowel cancer & if you're eligible to ensure you return your screening kit. Best wishes to Edward for his continued recovery.”