FORMER FOOTBALLER Vinnie Jones has announced that he has skin cancer – and so does his wife Tanya.

The US-based British actor spoke to The Sun about their battle, saying that he first noticed a small dark mark below his eye in February.

He had it examined by a doctor, and was diagnosed with skin cancer. He has since been told that more tumours have been found on his body, and has been receiving treatment.

Jones told the newspaper that he is fighting the cancer “with everything I’ve got”.

Vinnie Jones and wife Tanya. Pic: Lewis Whyld/PA Wire

He also revealed that Tanya, his wife, has skin cancer. In her case, it is believed to be related to drugs she has been taking since having a heart transplant 25 years ago.

Earlier this week, actor Hugh Jackman posted a photograph on his Instagram account that revealed he had basal cell carcinoma removed from his nose.

Basal cell carcinoma is not the same as melanoma, and is a commonly-diagnosed form of skin cancer.

Melanoma is one of the most common cancers found in Ireland and worldwide.

Each year, around 721 cases of melanoma are diagnosed in Ireland, according to the Irish Cancer Society.

• For more information and advice on melanoma and other forms of cancer, visit the Irish Cancer Society’s website or phone its National Cancer Helpline on freephone 1800 200 700 (Monday to Thursday 9am – 7pm, Friday 9am – 5pm).

Read: Mortalities due to cancer, heart disease significantly down in last decade>