A Hitchin fundrasing manager is urging people across the area to join Macmillan Cancer Support’s Go Sober for October campaign.

The challenge, which runs for the duration of next month, encourages people to abstain from alcohol in return for sponsorship from friends and family.

The fundraising event is being held for the second time after £2 million was raised for Macmillan in 2013 – helping the charity provide practical, medical and financial support for people affected by cancer.

Carla Pilsworth, who is the head of fundraising for the Anglia region, took part in the inaugural month-long challenge.

About the experience, she said: “As soon as the Go Sober challenge launched last year I knew it would be a great one for me to get involved in. As well as giving me a personal challenge, I thought it would be a great platform to talk to my friends and family about the work of Macmillan.

“I knew it would be difficult to give up having a glass of wine in the pub on Fridays so I enlisted my five drinking friends to do it with me. We organised different social events like trips to the cinema and tried new outdoor activities together at the weekend.

“Between us we raised £500 with our Go Sober challenge. We have continued the fundraising momentum and have just completed the Ben Nevis Midnight Challenge together, raising £5,000.”

Those taking part who have special occasions lined up next month can buy a ‘golden ticket’ for £15, giving them one night off from abstinence.

Carla added: “It was difficult when occasions such as weddings and social events came up. I got around one of these by buying a golden ticket and for a wedding I was the designated driver. I felt better during the month for not drinking alcohol and was really pleased to be raising money and awareness for people affected by cancer.”

To sign up visit www.gosober.org.uk.