‘Willy Waddle’ aims to tackle cancer in men with seafront fundraiser in Brighton and Hove

Male cancer charity Orchid is looking for runners and joggers – and even real plodders – to take part in the first Willy Waddle to be held in Brighton and Hove.

The 2km seafront fun-run is aimed at raising money and awareness as Orchid tackles life-threatening conditions affecting tens of thousands of men, including testicular, penile and prostate cancer.

Those taking part will be given a free inflatable willy costume for what has been described as “one of the wackiest – and silliest – 2K fun-runs of the year”.

Orchid said: “The first of its kind in Brighton and Hove, this brand new event invites people of all fitness levels to come together for an unmissable weekday night with the collective mission to raise awareness and funds to save more lives from male cancers.

“Every year over 50,000 men in the UK will be diagnosed with prostate, testicular and penile cancer.

“Of these men over 47,000 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, around 2,400 will be diagnosed with testicular cancer and over 600 will be diagnosed with the rare penile cancer.

“Sadly, these numbers are increasing, with prostate cancer set to become the most common cancer overall in the UK by 2030.

“Orchid is launching Willy Waddle Brighton and Hove to highlight this and to drive awareness of male cancers.

“While intended to be fun, at its heart this event aims to raise awareness and convey a serious message to the general public about male cancer.”

Orchid chief executive Rebecca Porta said: “With over 50,000 men diagnosed in the UK every year – and with numbers on the increase – there is an urgent need to get men, their family and friends talking about these cancers.

“Taking part in this event is a great way to get people talking.

“Join us – and your fellow willy waddlers – and take on this challenge to support someone going through male cancer, raise money in memory of a loved one or just start a conversation!”