Free cervical screening launched in Guernsey and Alderney

Free cervical screening for women aged between 25 and 65 has been introduced in Guernsey and Alderney.

Previously, most women on the islands had to pay for the service.

Now, eligible women will still be automatically invited to book their screening appointment at the centre of their choice, but it will be free of charge.

Guernsey's Health and Social Care Committee made the "in-principle" decision to introduce the free service back in October and it was officially launched today.

Around five new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed across the bailiwick every year.

Health bosses say that by taking away the cost of screenings, they hope more women will attend appointments.