MEN wearing smalls will hope to raise a large sum for charity in the spring.

The Pants to Testicular and Prostate Cancer 4km event will take place on Sunday, May 9, at Streatlam Farm, near Barnard Castle.

Jonathan Saunders, of Staindrop, had the idea while on a jogging machine at the gym. “I saw a girl wearing a T-shirt for a night run,”

he said.

“I thought, us men never do anything like that, while women have lots of events to raise money for charity. It is meant to be a bit of fun. I want everyone who takes part to have a laugh.”

He is inviting men to strip down to their underwear to raise money and public awareness of this type of cancer.

Mr Saunders, who runs taekwondo and self-defence classes in Barnard Castle, West Auckland and Newton Aycliffe, hopes to raise £15,000.

Entrants can either run in their pants or wear underwear over the top of jogging bottoms. Entry costs £12.50 and runners must promise to raise at least £10 in sponsorship.

“Nobody particularly likes going to the doctor’s and having their bits examined, but too many men just don’t consider going,” said Mr Saunders.

“I have four children and I want them to grow up not being concerned about going to the doctor to be checked.”

He hopes local sports teams will get involved and has already received positive feedback.

“Everyone has been absolutely fantastic in offering their services for free.

“I hope lots of men will get involved in it and the women can come along and cheer on a load of hunks in their underwear.”

To enter or for more details, call Mr Saunders on 01833-660854.