Man, 24, has surgery for breast cancer

London: A man diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 24 yesterday spoke of his shock.

Nicky Avery, believed to be the youngest man to suffer the disease, ignored the lump near his left nipple until his girlfriend encouraged him to see a doctor.

Scans and a biopsy in August revealed the lump was cancerous and he has since had part of his nipple and breast removed, leaving a large scar.

Avery said he had previously thought the disease only affected women. He said: "My doctor said I'm the youngest man in Britain to get it. When they told me I had breast cancer I was shocked. I felt numb." Avery is due to start chemotherapy.

He added: "I'm feeling good. I'm a massive Arsenal fan and Thierry Henry sent me a signed photo, wishing me well. I was over the moon."