WORCESTER residents are being urged to give up alcohol this month as part of a Cancer Research UK campaign.

Although it's nearly a fortnight since New Year's resolutions were due to kick in, campaign organisers say there is still time to commit to its 'dryathlon'.

The project invites drinkers to take a month-long break from booze and get sponsored or donate the money they save on alcohol to charity.

Paula Young, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Worcestershire, said: "For those looking to banish the January blues and kick-start 2016 with a clear head, there’s no better time to take on the Dryathlon challenge.

"Even though January 1 has passed, it’s not too late to ditch the drink and help us succeed in our mission to beat cancer sooner.

"Despite what people might think - going dry doesn’t have to be dull. We’re asking people to give up the sauce, not their social life, and to embrace a month with one less sin.

"Every pound raised by our Dryathlete heroes will help fund the charity’s life-saving research.

"So it’s not too late – sign up now, drop the drink and help us make Dryathlon 2016 our best yet."

Fundraisers - or 'dryathletes' - can commit to the campaign from any date in January.

Last year, 6,906 people in the West Midlands took on the Dryathlon challenge, raising a fantastic £493,650 to help beat 200 types of cancer.

According to figures from 2009 to 2011, 79 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in the West Midlands and Worcestershire region.

To take on Dryathlon visit dryathlon.org