A cancer survivor is warning people against using sunbeds as figures show an increase in cases of skin cancer.

Jacqui Carruthers used sunbeds before a night out or before going on holiday and would not use protection when she was sunbathing.

In March 2009 she was diagnosed with malignant melanoma after a mole on her back changed colour. She had the mole and surrounding tissue removed to make sure the cancer did not return.

Figures released by the Scottish Government on Monday show a 62% increase in the number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer between 2000 and 2010.

Ms Curruthers, 32, is warning against the use of sunbeds.

The mother-of-one, from Bishopton, Renfrewshire, said: "I sunbathed as a teenager and in my 20s. Although I wasn’t a regular sunbed user, I used sunbeds occasionally prior to nights out to make myself look good and have a 'healthy' tanned appearance.

"When I was diagnosed I felt as though my life had been pulled from under me. I was completely naïve and didn’t believe that this could happen to me. I'm not pale skinned and I don’t burn so I didn’t think that skin cancer would ever be an issue.

"I would warn anyone against using sunbeds as they are significantly increasing their risk of getting cancer."

The Scottish Government are warning young people to be aware of the dangers of the sun and sunbeds.

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "These figures are yet another stark warning of the dangers of unsafe tanning - either in the sun or using sunbeds. People need to realise how essential it is to wear sunscreen and cover up in the sun. Doing this and avoiding sunbed use really could save your life.

"Jacqui's story shows us that you don’t need to use sunbeds regularly to put yourself at risk of skin cancer. I hope people will use her experience as a warning and think very carefully before using sunbeds or going out in the sun without wearing sunscreen.

"The increase in the number of people being diagnosed with melanoma may in part be down to better awareness and improved diagnosis, but there is no doubt that unsafe tanning remains a big issue, particularly among the young."

Anyone who sees changes in their skin should go to their doctor as soon as possible.

Sir Harry Burns, chief medical officer, said: "Survival in Scotland after a diagnosis of this tumour is generally better than in most other European countries. So, it is important that if you have a dark patch on your skin that you think has changed recently or has started to bleed or become itchy you go and see the doctor about it and get the best available treatment."

For more information on skin cancer, visit the STV Health Centre, brought to you by NHS inform.