A Falmouth businessman who lives above a pub has turned tee-total for the month in a bid to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

Martin Leaker, pictured right, has signed up for the charity’s new fundraising campaign, Dryathlon, which challenges social drinkers to give up alcohol for the month of January and raise money through sponsorship and by donating money they would have spent on the demon drink.

After the traditional excesses of Christmas and new year, Martin thought January would be the ideal time to “go on the wagon” and raise some money for charity at the same time.

“I have lots of work to do this month, so I thought I would take the month off the booze,” he said.

“I do live above a pub so that makes it a bit more interesting.

“I am two weeks in now, half way there, and have kept myself really busy.”

Martin says he has not been tempted to have a sneaky tipple, but has found himself at the mercy of some of his friends.

“There have been a few wind-ups where friends have been making out that they have seen me with a bottle of whisky, but it’s all in good humour,” he said.

Although determined to stay off the drink this month, Martin does have plans for next month.

“There is a big rugby weekend coming up so I will be having a couple of beers watching the rugby,” he said.

Martin has set a target to raise £150, but is expecting to double that figure by the end of the month.

Anyone wishing to support him can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/dryathlete-martin-leaker or by texting MLUK86 £1 to 70070 which will donate a pound.