SIR Alex Ferguson has urged Scots with a persistent cough to see their GP sooner rather than later as part of a bid to increase early detection rates for lung cancer.

Sir Alex, who lost both his parents to the disease, stressed the importance of not ignoring a persistent cough which has not cleared after three weeks.

A campaign featuring the former Manchester United manager has already resulted in more people saying they would be less likely to delay a visit to the GP if they were concerned about lung cancer.

The number of over-55s who disagreed strongly that they "would feel silly going to the doctor" with small changes that they feared could be lung cancer increased to 36 per cent.

Meanwhile, almost two-fifths of the target audience (39 per cent) said they were less likely to put off visiting their doctor if they had a possible symptom of the disease, an increase of six per cent.

Lung cancer survival rates are significantly increased if the disease is detected at an early stage, with the five-year survival rates for when it is detected at stage one or two almost 20 times better than for those whose disease has progressed to stage four by the time it is diagnosed.

Sir Alex said: "Everyone should be aware of the signs of lung cancer. If you or someone you know has a cough that won't clear up, don't ignore it. With higher survival rates for people who seek help at an earlier stage, it's worthwhile raising it with your GP sooner rather than later."

Glasgow-based GP Dr Douglas Rigg also backed the campaign, saying: "If you have a cough for three weeks or more, your GP wants to see you. For most people it isn't a serious ­problem, but it does need to be checked because a long lasting cough can be a sign of lung cancer. The earlier lung cancer is found, the easier it is to treat."