A Preston man has launched a charity event to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK after his uncle was saved by an early diagnosis.

James Callagher is organising ‘March for Men’ after setting up his charity ‘Purple Penguins’ following his uncle Jerry’s diagnosis.

March for Men takes place on May 30 and will see James walk the full 20.6 miles of The Guild Wheel.

He wants as many people as possible to join him for some or all of the route to raise funds for the charity.

James said: “My uncle got lucky with prostate cancer and celebrated three years cancer free last year.

“I want other families to have survivors or never go through the stress of cancer.”

James set up Purple Penguins after Jerry gave away his sister at her wedding. Jerry and his nephews were dressed in tailcoats with purple cravats and have been known as the Purple Penguins ever since.

He said: “At the wedding over a few beverages we decided we do something that could make a difference to people, we decided that collectively we are far more powerful than individuals.

“Rather than it just be chat that goes nowhere, we are acting and here we are.

“Sadly like nearly all families these days we have been hit by cancer a few times, our Gaffer was one of these stories.

“Jerry was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a chance health screening at work. Without this bit of luck he wouldn’t have been diagnosed in the early stages and the results we don’t want to think about.

“He has now been all clear for three years he is one of the lucky ones and so we are starting our charity events adventure raising awareness and money for Prostate Cancer UK.”

March for Men costs £14 to enter with all money raised after insurance going to the charity.

It is open to men, women, children and dogs and all entrants will receive a wristband and Tshirt.

Tickets are available through Eventbrite.

Will you be taking part in March For Men? Let us know in the comments section