Winchester MP Steve Brine has paid tribute to a leading breast cancer campaigner who has died aged 38.

Kris Hallenga was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer a decade ago and subsequently founded the charity CoppaFeel, which seeks to teach young women and others about cancer, and in particular awareness of breast cancer.

CoppaFeel! is a breast cancer awareness charity based in London focused on promoting early detection of breast cancer by encouraging women under 30 to regularly check their breasts.

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Mr Brine who lost his own Mum to breast cancer in 2003, became friends with Kris and in 2014 brought the campaigner to Winchester to talk to young people.

Steve said: "I am absolutely gutted to hear of Kris’ death. She was a good friend and a lovely lady who turned the most horrible thing into a force for good. Her work through CoppaFeel has saved countless lives.

“We became friends shortly after I was first elected and I asked her if she’d come to Winchester and speak to school pupils at a morning assembly. She said yes but only if we could do all of them!

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“So we addressed morning assemblies at Kings, Westgate and Henry Beaufort and she told her story. You could hear a pin drop.

“The way this glamorous young woman communicated with young people was something to behold. I know, because I still meet people who attended that day, her message was heard.

“Rest in peace Kris and thank you for the lives you have saved.”