Paltrow backs fight against cancer

Gwyneth Paltrow has called on the British public to dig deep into their pockets to raise funds for cancer research.

The Oscar-winning actress, who lost her father to cancer, said it is time to "fight back" against the disease which affects one in every three Britons and is backing a new campaign, called Stand Up To Cancer, which aims to raise funds for clinical research.

"Cancer claims the lives of eight million men, women and children worldwide every year," she said at the launch of the initiative at The Savoy hotel in London.

"I lost my father in 2002 and I am all too aware of the impact this disease has on a family.

"Stand Up To Cancer is a grassroots movement to raise funds for cancer research. On October 19 the fight against cancer comes to town.

"We have the power to make cancer powerless and perhaps even end it but it takes research and that requires funding.

"Cancer has taken some of the best among us and it is time for us all to stand up and fight back. I am so proud to be standing up to cancer for my dad."

Stand Up To Cancer, already a successful fundraising project in America, will raise money for Cancer Research UK and other research projects and will culminate in a live television fundraising event on Friday October 19 on Channel 4, with a host of stars urging the public to donate money and raise funds.

Kylie Minogue, who suffered from breast cancer, is also to be involved, Channel 4 said.

Comedian Alan Carr, who is hosting the event, added: "Like so many people I have seen how destructive the big 'C' is. I've already lost two people this year to cancer and my friend was diagnosed with throat cancer and next week is having a voice box removed and won't speak again."