The grey walls of a historic mausoleum in West Wycombe are now shining purple as part of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer.

The Dashwood Mausoleum in the West Wycombe Estate has joined Pancreatic Cancer Action’s 'Turn It Purple' campaign to mark Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.

The charity has called for businesses and individuals across the country to shine purple lights – the symbolic colour for pancreatic cancer – over buildings and structures to generate discussion around the disease and its symptoms.

Despite some initial troubles lighting up the mausoleum it was transformed into a purple glow on November 17 in time for World Pancreatic Cancer Day.

The historic structure stands on top of West Wycombe Hill next to the Church of St Lawrence so the purple glow can be seen across the town.

Sir Edward Dashwood from the West Wycombe Estate said: “We are looking forward to taking part in “Turn it Purple” this year and hope it will create a lot awareness for pancreatic cancer.

“You should be able to see the building lit in purple from miles around and we hope that you will support the cause.”

Every year around 9,000 people will be diagnosed with the fifth deadliest cancer in the UK, and due to late diagnoses will face a three percent chance of survival and an average life expectancy of three to six months.

Ali Stunt, CEO at Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: “Each year we are overwhelmed by the huge numbers of supporters who embrace the colour purple to raise awareness.

“We are delighted that the mausoleum is taking part. It’s thanks to their participation that the event will become a success and more people will become aware.”

Low mood or depression, indigestion, jaundice, back pain and weightloss are a few of the symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer.

To take part in turn it purple or to find out more about pancreatic cancer please visit www.pancreaticcanceraction.org.