Party -loving students have promised to banish the booze in January to raise money for charity.

They have pledged to swap pints and shots for tea and juice in a bid to raise funds for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research.

Dryathlon is the charity’s New Year fundraising campaign and people across Sussex are being urged to sign up now in time for January 1.

Dryathletes agree to drop the drink for a month and either get sponsored or donate the money they would have spent on alcohol to help beat cancer sooner.


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Steve Welch, 20, who is studying business management at Sussex University, is among students from around the country taking part.

He said: “Taking on Dryathlon is going to be a bit of a challenge but it’s for a really worthwhile cause so I’m determined to stay committed throughout January.

“And let’s face it – it will be good for my liver.

“Everyone knows someone who’s been affected by cancer. My grandad survived bowel cancer but not everyone is so lucky, so we all need to do our bit to help.”

Steve will be joined in the challenge by Liam Hooper, from Brighton, who studies at the Brit School in Croydon.

Every hour, around five people diagnosed with cancer in Sussex and the south east.

Survival rates have doubled over the past 40 years and the charity’s scientists and researchers have been at the heart of that progress.

Dryathlon supporters can register as individuals or set up a team and get their friends, family and colleagues involved to motivate each other.

And for those who find the thought of 31 days off the sauce too daunting, there’s the ‘tipple tax’ which allows the Dryathlete to donate a £20 penalty to compensate for falling off the wagon – particularly helpful for weddings, birthdays or those who just fancy a big night out.

A charity spokeswoman said: “I’m impressed that even hard-drinking students are taking on Dryathlon.

“Steve and Liam are going to need plenty of resolve to make it through January, especially in the face of the ribbing they are anticipating from their mates.

“We’re hoping that other determined men and women will step up and join them to help beat cancer sooner.”

To take part in Dryathlon in January, visit www.dryathlon.org