Nearly 50 men screened for prostate cancer in a record-breaking event in Bridgnorth last month had possible signs of the disease in their blood, according to an analysis of the results.

Men who attended prostate cancer screenings at the Castle Hall on Halloween have now received results of the tests. The town broke the UK record for the largest turnout at a screening event for the disease on October 31.

According to consultant urologist David Baxter-Smith 48 of the 583 men tested – 8.2 per cent – were given red or amber results.

The results refer to the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels in their blood, which could indicate signs of prostate cancer.

Mr Baxter-Smith has written to all the men who took part and has given them red, amber or green ratings.

He said: “Of the men, 24 had red levels which I regard as abnormally high, while 24 had amber ratings, also rated as high. The blood tests are not completely reliable and there may well be other medical reasons why they had abnormally high or high levels.”

He advised anyone who received a red or amber result to seek an immediate follow-up with their GP.

“Men who receive a letter from me with a green rating should have no concerns,” he added. “However, having an annual follow up is vital to ensure that any changes in PSA levels are spotted early.”

Analysis of the results showed 12 of the 24 men in the red category were aged between 50 and 69, while the remainder were in their 70s or 80s.

More than 500 of the men tested were from Bridgnorth while others came from Much Wenlock, Broseley, Shifnal, Telford and Claverley.

Bridgnorth Lions President, Chris Aked, said: “Since starting the screening programme in 2009 the number of men tested has risen substantially each year.

“Of the 660 men tested in the first two years more than 30 were found to have prostate cancer – they are now receiving treatment.

“The need for such testing – which is not normally available within the NHS for men without symptoms – is clearly welcomed by our local population.”