They are all accomplished ‘Dryathletes’ after raising over a thousand pounds by giving up the booze.

 

As the gold medals flow at the Rio Olympics, and the drink dries up, Frances Webber, 29, and her team, hope Wales will produce some more winners nearer home. 

 

They are challenging men and women to take on Cancer Research UK’s Dryathlon, the original fundraising campaign that invites social drinkers to take a month-long break from the plonk to raise money for life-saving research.

 

After a summer of boozy holidays and ‘one too many’ at weddings, it offers the chance to kick-start a new season by going booze-free for September.

 

Dryathletes pledge to stay dry for a month, drumming-up sponsorships, or donating the money they would have spent on alcohol.

 

Frances, from Brynmawr, has managed the Cancer Research UK shop in Abergavenny for four years.

She has taken the challenge three times, in memory of her dad, William, who died five years ago from lung cancer, aged just 63.

 

Frances has also persuaded shop volunteer, Judith Davies, 65, friends Loz Williams, Philip Jones, and brother-in-law Ross McAndrew, 34, to ditch the drink for a good cause.

 

Frances said, “I wanted to raise as much money as possible to help beat cancer. It was quite hard giving up booze, but remembering my dad made me keep going”.

 

Judith, from Abergavenny, has volunteered in the Cancer Research UK shop for the past two years, successfully completed Dryathlon in January.

 

She said: “I found it relatively easy as I had over-indulged over Christmas.

 

“For people who have had enjoyed an indulgent summer holiday already, taking part in Dryathlon in September is a great way to get back to a healthier lifestyle. I would recommend it.”

 

Frances and her successful fundraising team hope they will inspire others to ditch the booze for a month.

 

Supporters can register to take part in Dryathlon as individuals or set up a team by getting friends, colleagues or relatives involved to motivate each other along the way. 

 

Last year over 3,800 men and women in Wales raised almost quarter of a million pounds to help beat 200 types of cancer.

 

Alison Birkett, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Wales, said: “I hope Frances and her friends will inspire others to say ‘cheers to no beers.’

 

“By making a commitment to be booze-free for September, everyone can kick-start a healthier autumn”.

 

For those who think the challenge sounds a bit too daunting - or have a wedding or party to attend - there’s a special ‘Tipple Tax’ for Dryathletes who fall off the wagon to donate a £20 penalty.

 

Every day, 52 people are diagnosed with cancer in Wales. Dryathlon aims to raise money to accelerate ground-breaking research to help more people survive.

 

To take on Dryathlon in September, visit www.dryathlon.org