People in Romford could be forgiven for thinking that a gang of naked men had taken over town on Monday morning.

A group of 15 ‘nearly nude’ cyclists pedalled through town to get some exposure - for their cause.

The volunteers – who were actually wearing bodysuits - stopped off at The Crown, London Road, for a rest on the first morning of their mammoth cycle from Southend to Galway, Ireland.

The six-day ‘East to West’ challenge is in aid of the Male Cancer Awareness Campaign.

Holly Gilbert from the charity is riding behind the group in a support car. She said: “From a distance they do look naked and so people certainly notice them.

“Residents have been really supportive on the journey, asking what they’re doing it for and some donating money on our rest stops.”

She explained: “It’s about raising awareness of male cancer, and to encourage men not to be embarrassed about visiting their doctor if they have symptoms.

“The earlier cancer is diagnosed the more chance there is of successfully treating it.”

For more information about the charity visit: www.malecancer.org.