PUB landlord Dave Bunyan is to bare his chest to raise vital money for cancer research.

The manager of the Pot and Glass pub, in Egglescliffe Village, near Stockton, has agreed to allow drinkers to wax his chest, provided they pay for the privilege. Mr Bunyan and his wife, Ann, have organised the waxing at a charity auction and tombola night at their pub next Friday.

They decided to raise money for the North Tees Breast Care Fund after Mrs Bunyan was diagnosed with breast cancer in May.

Next month, she will undergo surgery at the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, and wanted to raise awareness and money for the charity.

The 46-year-old said: "It was a shock to the system when I was diagnosed and I would like people to be aware and not to just push it to one side. Breast cancer can happen to anyone."

The pair are appealing for people to donate gifts that can be auctioned on the night, or prizes for the tombola.

To help, call (01642) 651009.