VETERAN broadcaster Michael Parkinson has urged fathers and sons to sign up to a York 5km run in aid of prostate cancer.

Sir Michael, 78, has given his support to the R U Taking The P? fun run, which takes place in Rowntree Park on Father’s Day every June.

The Yorkshire-born broadcaster was diagnosed with prostate cancer last summer and has since been successfully treated with a course of radiotherapy.

As well as raising awareness of prostate cancer and the signs and symptoms to look out for, the event has raised £45,000 for world-class research into the disease at the University of York’s Cancer Research Unit.

The unit is funded by the charity Yorkshire Cancer Research and is led by internationally-renowned scientist Professor Norman Maitland.

Sir Michael said: “I’m delighted to support such a fantastic Yorkshire event. R U Taking The P? is a fun and unique way to raise awareness of prostate cancer and raise money for vital research at the same time.

“Being diagnosed with prostate cancer has really brought to my attention the urgent need for men to join forces and help to improve the outcome for future patients.

“Luckily for me they were able to treat it, but for 10,000 men every year it’s a different story. Let’s encourage each other to pay more attention to our health and visit our GP if we experience any unusual symptoms.”

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, accounting for one in four male cases.

More than 40,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, and 10,000 men die annually from the disease.

Brian Hughes, its organiser and this year’s York Press Community Pride person of the year winner, said: “We’re over the moon that Sir Michael has chosen to support our 5K fun run. With his help, we’re hoping this year will be bigger than ever.

“Professor Maitland and his team in York have made some incredible discoveries over the last few years. We now know far more about prostate cancer and how it is able to spread, survive and resist aggressive treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. It’s vital that men across the county come together and help us beat this disease.”

• R U Taking The P? is on Sunday, June 15. This year sees the launch of a special father and son discount entry package. For more information visit yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/rutakingthep