'We shouldn't fix something that isn't broken - if anything we should encourage women to get tested more often'

Rachel Bennett, right, endured a 'near-miss' with cervical cancer but following an NHS rule change about screening is worried others may not be so lucky

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CAMPAIGNER Rachel Bennett is calling on the NHS to reverse a new rule reducing the frequency of smear tests - following her 'near miss' with cervical cancer.

The NHS England change, introduced in July, means routine smear tests now take place every five years rather than three.

Rachel, of Stoke, says her test in August 2022 revealed she had CIN3 cells present in her cervix. If left untreated, these 'severely abnormal' cells can lead to cervical cancer.

The 34-year-old had the problem cells removed the following January. But she believes the smear test saved her from a much worse diagnosis - and fears others may not so lucky following the rule change.

Now she has set up an online petition that has attracted thousands of signatures.