MEN are invited to wear a wig, don a dress and brave a bra to raise some vital funds for Rowcroft Hospice.

The charity has announced plans for the first ever Bays Drag Olympics, an event just for men.

The new event has been launched following the huge success of the Big Midnight Walk, Rowcroft's ladies 13-mile sponsored walk.

This men-only event will bring out their silly and competitive sides as they don a dress to raise funds for charity.

Rowcroft event organiser, Laura Carus said: "We hold a very successful sponsored walk for ladies and felt it was only fair to do something for the fellas with a bit of a twist.

"Rowcroft relies on fundraising events to ensure we can continue to provide our vital services, caring for those with terminal illnesses. However, when it comes to events we don't want to take ourselves too seriously.

"We are appealing to the men of South Devon's silly side, so why not be silly for a good cause?"

The event has already been given the thumbs up by local brewery Bays who are the headline sponsors.

Peter Salmon, sales and marketing director at Bays, said: "We are excited to be part of such a fun and original event and privileged to be supporting a charity for whose work we so much admire."

The event will take place in July and the action starts with a one-mile qualifying race around Torre Abbey Meadows. The top performers will go through to sports day-style heats, including a sack race and an egg and spoon race with a twist. The event will culminate in crowning the ultimate Bays Drag Olympic Champion.

Newton Abbot rugby club have already lent their support to the event by posing for promotional photos.

Rugby club player Ben Rowntree said: "This is a brilliant opportunity to help such a worthwhile charity and of course any excuse to dress up and have a laugh, what more could a man want?"

If you are interested in taking part in the event, which takes place on Saturday, July 31, call Laura Carus on 01803 210835 or visit www.dragolympics.co.uk to register for more information.