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Get to Know Cancer campaign recognised with prestigious award

NHS England (London) and Tottenham Hotspur FC were last night presented with a prestigious award from the football community for their outstanding work to improve early cancer diagnosis.

The Get to Know Cancer campaign was named Best Corporate Social Responsibility Scheme at the Football Business Awards, beating Chelsea FC, Budweiser and Liverpool FC among others.

Spurs has supported this major NHS campaign since the 2013-14 Premier League season, with the Club using its profile to encourage fans and the community to recognise the early symptoms of cancer and get checked sooner – with the message that cancer is ‘treatable, even beatable’.

Following an overwhelming response from fans in the first season, the Club extended its partnership with ‘Get to Know Cancer’ into the 2014-15 campaign.

Dr Andy Mitchell, Regional Medical Director, NHS England (London) said: “We are thrilled and delighted that Tottenham Hotspur FC has been recognised for its important work with us on the Get to Know Cancer campaign.

“The Club has worked tirelessly to use its high profile to raise awareness of the symptoms of cancer and promote early diagnosis among fans and the community.

“We estimate that at least 1,000 lives in London could be saved if cancers were spotted earlier, and there is no doubt that this campaign is making a real difference. We already know that over half of fans who took part in a survey last season said they now wait less time before seeking medical advice about changes to their health as a result.

“Our thanks go to Tottenham Hotspur FC and all at Get to Know Cancer for their hard work in making this important project such a great success.”

Simon Burton, Director of the Football Business Awards, said: “Today business and football are strongly connected, with fans taking a vested interest in events off the pitch as well as on it. Football’s role within the UK is incredibly influential with the sport able to make a real difference in communities, whether social, charitable or educational. It is important therefore that the work football undertakes is inspirational and exceptional and the entrants into this year’s FBAs reflect that.”