Give It Up for Charity

Men and women across the country are being challenged to lay off the booze in January to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The charity is encouraging people to go teetotal for the month as part of Dryathlon, their new year funding campaign.

So-called 'dryathletes' pledge to drop the drink, either getting sponsorship from friends, or agreeing to donate the money they would have spent on alcohol to the charity.

More than 35,000 dryathletes quit drinking for the charity's first Dryathlon campaign in January 2013, raising over £3m.

Dryathletes who fall off the wagon — or just need a night back on the sauce for a big event — can hang their heads in shame and pay a one off £20 'tipple tax.'

Anthony Newman, director of marketing at Cancer Research UK, said: "It's a great way to save a little cash and have a clear head in the New Year, while raising money to help beat cancer sooner."

Those individuals wanting sponsorship forms, posters, a wristband and beer mats were required to have registered at the Dryathlon website by January 1st. But it's not too late to do your own thing and gain sponsorship from your friends and family on an informal basis. Cancer Research UK is a great charity and ...

there are lots of other good reasons to go 'Dry in January' — see here for more