WORLD Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) is offering schools, community groups and businesses the chance to take part in the annual Beat the Banana! event this May.

Last year, participants staged fundraising days for the cancer prevention charity through events like fun runs with runners chasing a banana-suited competitor or penalty shoot-outs with a banana goalkeeper.

Beat the Banana! gives communities the chance to enjoy a fun day of activities while raising money for research and education programmes.

For those who want to arrange their own event, WCRF supplies an event pack including a banana costume and free promotional material, including balloons, collection tins, sponsorship forms and posters.

To find out how to take part or to organise your own event, visit beatthebanana.org or call 0207 343 4205.

LUCY DUXBURY, WCRF, Bedford Square, London