More than 130 men took advantage of a prostate testing service at a high profile charity event in Margate.

It was held at Hartsdown Technology College before a fund-raising bingo night in aid of the Dad’s Quest prostate cancer appeal which aims to highlight the need for screening, and also to raise £16,000 for two mobile scanners.

Among those who supported the screening were Thanet’s MPs Dr Stephen Ladyman and Roger Gale, kmfm radio presenter Johnny Lewis, college principal Andy Somers and local firemen.

Dad’s Quest founder Charlie Pepper, who lost her father Michael to prostate cancer a year ago to the day of the event, said: “It was a great event and a fabulous turn out of men for screening which is so critical.”

As well as bingo, talks were given by the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust and The Prostate Support Association.

Musician Mark A Smith provided live music and also gave the first public performance of the song written especially for Dad’s Quest called Don’t Let Pride.

Mr Gale donated a signed bottle of Houses of Parliament whisky which was auctioned to boost appeal funds.

Meanwhile members of Westgate and Birchington Rotary Club took part in a Strictly Come Dancing type of event at St Augustine’s in Westgate to help raise funds for Dad’s Quest.

Six men were joined by dancers from the Page Mason School of Dance and Drama and excelled in the competition, performing six Latin American dances despite having had only basic rehearsals.

After the couples performed, each table of diners representing a separate EU country voted in turn, Eurovision style. The winning couple were Chris Hedges and Claire Banham with a raunchy Rumba, closely followed in second place by Gordon Weston and Laura Yates with their sultry Salsa.

Mrs Pepper added: “We want to thank everyone who organised and enjoyed both of these events.”

To find out more about Dad’s Quest, visit the website at dadsquest.co.uk

Could you walk on water for charity? Well that’s exactly what we need you to do to support the Dad’s Quest prostate cancer cause.

The latest challenge to be dreamed up by the Thanet Extra and kmfm charity team involves participants stepping inside a giant hamster ball and trying to walk, run or roll the length of a swimming pool.

The Thanet water walking challenge takes place on Saturday, June 13 at Hartsdown leisure centre, Margate.

To take part participants must pledge to raise a minimum of £75. This event is for adults and children aged 17 or over and there is a maximum weight restriction of 15 stone.

You will be asked to indicate your prefered time to take part and if you wish to do so with specific friends we ask that you give your group a team name so our admin staff know to group you together when allocating time slots.

Event sponsors are needed with organisations benefiting from considerable profile through KM Group newspapers, kmfm radio and web sites. To discuss this contact Simon Dolby on 07989 164 752.