The annual March for Men saw more than 200 supporters and their friends and family at support the charity event last month (MARCH).

The event, which was opened with live music from the brilliant Samba Panache, saw participants complete a sponsored run or walk along the Promenade by Bournemouth Pier Approach.

So far, more than £8,000 has been raised for men’s health services at University Hospitals Dorset.

Each year the hospitals treat thousands of men in the Dorset community for a whole range of health conditions including prostate, bladder, or testicular cancer.

March for Men is an important opportunity to raise awareness for the issues affecting men’s health, and at this year’s event participants were encouraged to share their #MarchforMenMotivation by writing their reason for taking part on their race bib.

Whether it was in memory of a loved one or to say thank you for the treatment they received, this personal touch allowed participants to share their stories with one another and united our community of supporters through shared experiences.

Tommy Johnston, co-lead of the urology department at University Hospitals Dorset, said: “We are very grateful for the charitable donations we have received through March for Men over the years.

“Their support has enabled us to introduce a range of new procedures and techniques which have improved the diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy of common conditions affecting men’s health.

“March for Men has recently helped us purchase the mini-PCL (percutaneous nephrolithotomy) surgical kit which allows us to treat larger kidney stones using a smaller incision, and therefore reduces the risks associated with this complex procedure.

“Thanks to everyone who took part or donated, with this year’s funds we are planning to purchase a new laser (Leonardo Mini Dual) which allows us to treat recurring bladder cancer in an outpatient setting under local anaesthetic, avoiding the need for an overnight stay.”