TWO actors have visited a York laboratory to hear about the pioneering work being done to tackle prostate cancer.

Father and son, George and Niall Costigan, who starred together in A Number at York Theatre Royal, are encouraging men to take part in June's R U Taking The P? fun run in support of prostate cancer charities.

George and Niall have met with Professor Norman Maitland at his science lab, in the biology department of the University of York for a tour of the unit and a lecture about prostate cancer research.

They also had opportunity to see exactly where and how the proceeds of the charity will help with further research in York into prostate cancer.

George, who starred in the 1980s film Rita, Sue and Bob Too, said: “Fellow actor Berwick Kaler is showing his support and we wanted to do our bit to try and get men to join in this fun run.

“This is another way we can show our support by making information about the event and a registration form available during each performance of A Number."

In the last five years R U Taking the P? has raised more than £46,000 for Yorkshire Cancer Research, and was founded by Brian Hughes after his friend died from prostate cancer and another had to undergo a prostatectomy only weeks after losing his wife to cancer.

Work commitments will mean George and Niall cannot be there on the day but they said they wanted to lend their support - especially as the event has introduced a special father and son rate this year.

The run starts in Rowntree Park at 9.30am on Father's Day, June 15

For more information go to yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/running or pick up a registration form from Brian’s Hair Fashions, South Bank Avenue, York.