Baring (nearly) all in challenge for male cancer charity (From Worcester News)

Baring (nearly) all in challenge for male cancer charity

12:20am Thursday 9th August 2012 in News

A FORMER Stourport man is nearly baring all in a gruelling charity challenge.

Andy Barham, who was born and raised in the town and lived there until 2000, will be running 100 miles and cycling 800 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End next month. 

He hopes to complete the challenge in eight days in aid of Male Cancer Awareness.

He is joined by fellow MCA supporter Amanda Rendall from London on the running stages and Cheltenham woman Nicola Rogers, who will be taking part on behalf of CoppaFeel breast cancer charity.

The 40-year-old will be adding a novelty element to the task by  donning a flesh-coloured lycra suit and dressing as MCA’s mascot Mr Nearnakedman. The suit is designed to raise awareness and reduce embarrassment of male cancer.

The businessman said: “It’s such a great charity and the suits are amazing!

“They really do turn heads. We hope to help raise awareness for male cancer and reduce embarrassment that men face around these issues.

“I chose MCA as I had a scare with testicular cancer about six years ago and was scared, didn’t want to admit it, didn’t want to talk to anyone – and that awareness and acceptance is what makes this charity’s work so good.

“We’re hoping to raise £5,000 for the charity and any support out on roads would be very much appreciated.

“The training has been hard but we are ready to take on this challenge.” Mr Barham has already set off from John O’Groats and will arrive in Land’s End on Thursday.

He will be stopping off near his home town in Bewdley on Monday. To sponsor him, visit justgiving.com/JOGLEAUGUST2012 or text JGLE80 and amount to 70070.

The charity is also trying to encourage more people to take on their own challenge and wear near naked suits. Visit ballsoutchallenge.org for information.