A GRANDFATHER, formerly from Milford Haven, will appear in the world’s first live TV advert from inside the human body today (Wednesday).

Philip McSparron will feature in a 90-second advert by Cancer Research UK and Channel 4, showing a colonoscopy.

The 60-year-old, who now lives in Barry, was inspired to take part in this TV-first after his brother John was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2010.

The advert will show how bowel polyps - which can develop into cancer - are removed.

Welding inspector Philip was due to have the procedure after routine tests picked up hidden traces of blood in his poo.

Philip received a bowel screening kit in the post just after his 60th birthday in 2016.

He said: “If it was not for my older brother John’s experience six years ago, I am not sure I would have done it.

"He had been fit and healthy but he was diagnosed with bowel cancer after using the kit and sending it back.

“When my kit turned up, I did it straightaway and sent it back.

"There was some blood showing so they sent another and asked me to do it again.

"I then had further tests and they have identified two polyps, which I am going to have removed.

“I would have thought that there was no need to do it if it hadn’t been for John’s experience.

"I had not felt unwell and there was no other family history, but I am very glad I did.

“It has been an eye-opener and I am happy to raise awareness about the importance of screening and early diagnosis.”

Brother John McSparron, 66, from Milford Haven said he initially ignored the kit when it turned up in the post six years ago.

"I was busy with a full-time job and I did not feel ill, so the kit sat on the table for a couple of weeks," he said.

“Then one day I was on my way to go to the toilet and I went back to get it.

"I was halfway upstairs and I came back to fetch it - I don’t know why but I am so glad I did."

Milford Mercury:

After further tests, John was sent for a colonoscopy and was diagnosed with bowel cancer.

He had surgery at Withybush Hospital, and was monitored for five years afterwards, receiving a clean bill of health.

“If I had not done it, I don’t think I would be here now," he said.

"I feel it saved my life and I am still here with my sons, grandchildren and great-grandchild.

"There had not been any family history of bowel cancer before, so I always tell everyone now the importance of doing the kit as soon as it arrives - just do it!”

Ruth Amies, of Cancer Research UK Wales, said: “We want viewers to join us to experience the unique insight of seeing live inside the human body, and witness a procedure that can actually prevent cancer from developing.

“Half of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime so it’s important to break down barriers, encourage conversation and show the progress that is being made in beating cancer."

The advert will be shown at around 3.25pm, and a 60-second version will be shown tonight at around 9.30pm.

For more information on how to help beat cancer sooner, visit www.cruk.org