A prostate cancer survivor has written an inspirational poem to encourage more men to get themselves tested.

Nigel Lewis-Baker, 64, of Strathcona Avenue, Little Bookham, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004 at the age of 58.

But when he had the test it revealed that the cancer had been in his body for several years and had become inoperable.

Now he has written the poem, A Word of Warning, for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, to encourage more middle-aged men to be tested for the potentially fatal disease.

He said: "When I was diagnosed they said I probably had it for four or six years, meaning that I had this problem start in my early 50s.

"The last thing on your mind is water work problems and cancer. Boys are particularly bad at going to doctors and taking themselves and their ailments seriously.

"They worry about loss of income and it is embarrassing, particularly when talking about your private regions.

"They don't do anything about it until it is too late. It might not be cancer but if you have problems get them seen to."

Mr Lewis-Baker found himself inspired to write the poem while on a visit to an abbey in Alton, Hampshire, last month.

Following his visit he also wrote another defiant poem, Nigel's Journey, about his own battle with prostate cancer.

He now intends to print out copies of the poem and put them in local pubs, clubs and shops to try and raise the awareness of prostate cancer in the community.

He added: "The important thing is to get the message out there.

"Prostate cancer kills more people than breast cancer these days yet most men have no idea what it is or where it is or, even worse, avoid seeking help when they have a problem."

Mr Lewis-Baker has been a prominent campaigner in raising cancer awareness appearing in a TV advert for Cancer Research UK last year.

He and fellow Little Bookham cancer survivor John Blackburn also founded a group last year called 'Topic of Cancer' which meets regularly and allows cancer sufferers to meet up socially and exchange their experiences and advice.

A Word of Warning by Nigel Lewis-Baker

NOW here is a message for you guys out there.

A short word of warning – take care and beware.

If you have trouble peeing with all of your might

Or have to get up more than once in the night

If all you can do is dribble and strain

Zip yourself up – and then do it again,

Then the prick you should look for is called a blood test

And the doctors and scientists do all the rest.

Your little prostate may be starting to grow

And squeeze on your organs – and you will not know.

But your pipe called urethra goes right through the middle

Which is why, when it grows, it gets harder to piddle.

It will only get worse – it will not just improve

So make early arrangements to ease or remove

This walnut-size organ that causes such grief

Before it's too late – sort it out – get relief!

It may NOT be cancer – it could just have grown

So a quick exploration and all will be known.

But if it is cancer you have to be quick

To catch it and treat it before you get sick.