Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, completing his test

Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, in partnership with the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, hosted a successful PSA screening event on Monday 15 June 2026, with 260 men from across the county attending for a potentially life-saving blood test.

The event highlighted the importance of early detection, with attendees taking a simple PSA blood test that can help identify potential prostate health concerns at an early stage.

Lawley and Overdale Parish Council and the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group would like to thank everyone who attended and took this important step for their health.

Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “It was incredible to see so many men come together to take a simple but important blood test.

“As someone who has a personal connection to this cause, I also joined members of the community in taking the test. It was great sitting in the waiting area, recognising so many familiar faces and seeing people chatting and supporting one another.

“This event also helped raise awareness of a disease that affects thousands of families every year.

“Events like this show the power of our community, working together to break down stigma and encourage open conversations about health.

“I would like to thank everyone who attended, as well as the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, volunteers and phlebotomists, for making such a positive impact.”

Dennis Briggs, a member of the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, said: “We would like to thank Lawley and Overdale Parish Council for their support in helping us organise and host this screening event. The turnout was fantastic and it was encouraging to see so many men taking the opportunity to have a test that could make a real difference to their lives.

“As a registered charity, we rely heavily on the generosity of local people, volunteers and our partners to continue providing awareness campaigns, screening events and support for those affected by prostate cancer. We were grateful that more than £1,000 was donated on the night and every contribution will help us continue this important work across Shropshire.

“Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK and early detection is crucial. Events like this not only help identify potential health concerns but also encourage conversations about prostate cancer and break down barriers that may stop people from seeking advice or getting tested.

“We are thankful to everyone who attended, donated or volunteered. Together, we are helping to raise awareness, save lives and ensure more men have access to the information and support they need.”

For those who were unable to attend, there are still opportunities to access PSA screening. Individuals can find information about upcoming PSA screening events or order a home testing kit to complete the process from the comfort of their own home. Find more information here: PSA Testing Events @ My PSA Tests

Anyone experiencing symptoms, concerns or changes to their health is encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional for advice and support.

Picture: Councillor Mark Boylan completing his PSA test at a previous event

Men aged 40 and over in the Lawley and Overdale Parish Council area are being encouraged to attend a free prostate health screening event this June to support early detection and help save lives.

A free PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing evening will take place on Monday 15 June 2026, from 6pm to 9pm at Lawley Community Centre.

The event is being hosted by Lawley and Overdale Parish Council in partnership with Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group.

Appointments must be booked in advance via timed slots, and no walk-in appointments will be available. Appointments are expected to fill quickly so eligible men are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out.

A PSA test is a simple blood test that can help identify potential prostate issues early, including prostate cancer, often before any symptoms appear. Detecting problems early can make a significant difference to treatment options and outcomes.

Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in men in the UK, with around 1 in 8 men diagnosed during their lifetime. In many cases, there are no early symptoms, meaning men may feel completely well while still having the disease.

Councillor Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “I’m proud that the parish council is supporting this vital service. I have had the test myself and can confirm it is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes but could save your life.

If you are a man aged 40 and over, please consider booking an appointment and making PSA testing part of your regular health checks especially if you have a family history of prostate cancer, are of Black ethnicity (a higher risk group), or have any concerns about your prostate health.

Even if you feel completely well, it is still worth checking. A PSA test takes minutes but can make a life changing difference.”

Dennis Briggs, a member of Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, said: “We are pleased to be working with Lawley and Overdale Parish Council to deliver this important service.

Prostate cancer is highly treatable when found early and bringing testing into the community helps remove barriers and encourages more men to get checked. We strongly recommend eligible men to take up this opportunity, even if they have no symptoms.”

The event is free to attend, with donations welcomed in support of the Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, which provides non-medical support to men and families affected by prostate cancer and helps raise awareness of the importance of early testing.

Booking is essential and must be made in advance via: PSA Testing Events @ My PSA Tests

Alternatively, you can order a home kit via the website: PSA Testing @ SPCSG – Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group

Details about the PSA test and more information about Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group, can be found on their website: PSA Testing @ SPCSG – Shropshire Prostate Cancer Support Group

Residents across Lawley and Overdale parish have come together to make their community cleaner and greener, collecting over 10 bags of litter as part of the Keep Britain Tidy Great British Spring Clean, which ran from Friday 13 to Sunday 29 March 2026.

The parish council organised a series of litter picks throughout the campaign, including a public event on Sunday 22 March, alongside its ongoing monthly community litter picks.

Volunteers of all ages took part, including parish councillors, staff, the community action team and local street champions. Additional litter picks were held with a local school, nursery and care homes, contributing a combined six hours of volunteering.

In response to community feedback, weekend litter pick sessions are now being introduced, making it more accessible for residents to get involved.

Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “It’s been fantastic to see so many people come together to care for our parish. Litter is harmful to the environment and wildlife, and it can make our area look messy and unwelcoming. Even giving an hour of your time can make a real difference and we’re grateful to everyone who joined us during the Great British Spring Clean campaign.”

The parish council encourages residents who were unable to take part in the Great British Spring Clean campaign to get involved by organising their own litter picks or signing up as a street champion for Telford, helping to keep Lawley and Overdale clean and tidy all year round. All necessary equipment is provided by Telford and Wrekin Council and volunteers can contribute as much time as they are able.

For details of upcoming litter picks in the Lawley and Overdale parish, visit the Lawley and Overdale Parish Council website: Lawley and Overdale Parish Council

To register as a Street Champion volunteer, visit the Telford and Wrekin website: Telford & Wrekin Council | Street Champions

Picture: Cheque presentation evening

Lawley and Overdale Parish Council and its partners have celebrated raising more than £3,900 for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide, with a cheque officially presented on Tuesday 24 February.

Members of the parish council presented the donation to PAPYRUS at The Grazing Cow pub in Lawley, celebrating the community’s fundraising success.

The council and its partners (Bournville Village Trust and Lawley Running Club) chose to support PAPYRUS following the loss of a local resident and pupil at a nearby school, Max Turton who passed away by suicide in 2024.

The money was raised throughout 2025 via a variety of community and partnership events with Bournville Village Trust and Lawley Running Club. These included the Lawley 5K Fun Run, Summer Fest, Christmas celebrations, the Christmas pantomime and organised coach trips, bringing residents together in support of a vital cause.

PAPYRUS is a UK-based charity dedicated to preventing suicide among young people and promoting positive mental health. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for people under 35 in the UK, making the charity’s work vital.

Katie Turton, Max’s mum, said: “I am deeply grateful to the Parish Council for choosing PAPYRUS to support all of their fundraising efforts in 2025, in loving memory of my son, Max. Thank you to everyone who has supported and donated –  the incredible amount raised will help continue to raise the profile of this amazing charity and create a lasting legacy for him.”

Mark Boylan, Chair of Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, said: “This is a great achievement for the area, and we thank everyone who donated and supported our fundraising activities. This will help make a real difference to young people in need.”

Ged Flynn, Chief Executive of PAPYRUS, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to Lawley and Overdale Parish Council and to everyone who supported the various local community events.

“Fundraising helps us to continue giving hope to children and young people who are struggling with life.

“We believe that many young suicides are preventable and together we can all help to keep our communities suicide-safe.”

Lindsey Powell, Bournville Village Trust Community Development and Partnership Officer, said: “Working in partnership with Lawley and Overdale Parish Council and Lawley Running Club provides fantastic opportunities not only to deliver great community activities and events but also to support charities like PAPYRUS.”

For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact HOPELINEUK247 on 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.

For support, advice, or to donate, visit the PAPYRUS website: Papyrus UK Suicide Prevention.