RECORD numbers of boys and men gathered in York on Sunday to take part in a 5K fun run to raise thousands of pounds for cancer care and research.

Just under 400 competitors took part in 2018’s R U Taking The P?, the males-only race and annual Father's Day fundraiser in support of York Against Cancer and prostate cancer research at the University of York.

The field was up around 70 on last year, making it the biggest turn-out yet, organiser Brian Hughes said.

“It shows awareness is growing about prostate cancer and about the race, which is excellent news," he added.

This year’s run started in Bishopthorpe Road for the first time, joining forces with the Bishopthorpe Road Traders’ Association. They laid on a day-long street party with attractions for all the family.

“It’s been fantastic,” Pete Kilbane, chairman of the Bishopthorpe Road Traders’ Association, said. “There’s been a party atmosphere here since this morning – the race has really brought it to life and it’s been lovely to see all the dads and lads racing each other in such a good cause.”

York panto dame Berwick Kaler got the run under way. “God bless you for coming today and for supporting such a worthwhile charity,” he said. “I think you are all marvellous.”

Family and friends lined to route to cheer the runners on, and first home in a time of 17m 17s was Peter Pearson, of York, a member of Clifton Cycling Club.

Peter entered this year’s race after spotting details in The Press. “I just thought I would have a go!” he said.

Others taking part included Professor Steve Leveson, founder and chairman of York Against Cancer, who walked the course with his dog, Rusty, behind the York Guard, the ceremonial group who lent their support to the race this year.

Competitor Daniel Walker, of Badger Hill, turned out in a natty Batman suit and was supported by his daughter Isla, aged three, who wore a Batgirl costume and carried a Batman teddy. “My granddad had prostate cancer and York Against Cancer gave him a lot of help,” Daniel commented.

Lee Jakobsen, Joe Baldock and Tristan Trown, all of Tang Hall, came along dressed as characters Deadpool, The Red Ranger and Donatello. “We wanted to raise awareness because we think it is a very good cause,” Lee said.

York rugby legend Geoff Hunter, 82, took part in the race as part of his regular fundraising for York Against Cancer.

John Lewis, of Acaster Malbis, was also among the competitors. He runs Treboom Brewery in Shipton by Beningbrough, which made a special beer to support the event and named it after the fundraiser. Five pence from each pint sold will go to R U Taking The P?.

In addition, the brewery held an open day recently and donations made on the day will go to the cause as well.

"I've done this run virtually every year since it started," John said.

"I used to work at the University of York in the cancer research unit as a research scientist.

"I've known people who have had prostate cancer."

Another runner was Kevin Hicks, of Nunthorpe Grove, South Bank.

He said: "One reason I took part is for fitness. Once you get to 50 I think you should keep mobile. But the main reason is to raise money and awareness for cancer.

"My mum died of cancer. My wife has had breast cancer. Thankfully she is fine now.

"Mixing it up with the street party is good as well. The atmosphere is great."

Gabriel Uttley, of Lundy Close, Clifton Without, also completed the run. He said: "I decided to enter because of the cause. We've got to get together as a society and help each other. I got a check for prostate cancer last year. Thankfully there were no issues.

"I was amazed how easy it was to have a check. They got back to me really quick.

"I've never run this before. This year I was determined to have a go and support the cause."

He added: "The street party is fantastic."

Julie Russell, general manager at York Against Cancer, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who walked or ran the course, and to everyone who supported the event,”

“Fingers crossed that a record turn-out will give us record takings from this year’s event.”

The street party included stalls, street food, live music, children's sport and activities, beer tent, raffle, dancing and more.

Pete Kilbane was "very happy" with the turnout, adding: "There's been a lovely atmosphere. It has been very family-friendly, lots of people mingling with their neighbours and making new friends."

Frankie Hayes, a member of the Bishopthorpe Road Traders’ Association, said: "We haven't had a full street closure since 2015. It's really to give back to the community for supporting local businesses.

"We had to choose a Sunday. This was the best Sunday we could choose. We collaborated with R U Taking The P?"