STAFF at Bromsgrove's Woolworths store took part in national Loud Tie Day.

They were helping raise awareness of a disease which kills thousands every year yet which, if detected early, can be successfully treated.

For staff at the High Street store who paid to wear a garish tie to highlight Bowel Cancer Awareness Day on Friday it was especially significant as one of their colleagues is recovering from the disease.

Store manager Martin Mawdsley said: "Many customers remarked on our ties and if we helped to get the message across, we will have achieved our aim."

The day raised around £12 for the Beating Bowel Cancer charity, set up by TV's former Watchdog presenter Lynn Faulds-Wood. The charity has the backing of Prince Charles.