A giant letter ‘C’ was hoisted up the rigging of Greenwich’s Cutty Sark ship ahead of a campaign to challenge cancer – or the Big C.

The Big C could be spotted last week at other C-based London landmarks including in front of the House of Commons, cruising down the River Thames on the Clipper and even amongst Moscow State Circus performers.

News Shopper: MP for Erith and Thamesmead Teresa Pearce with the Big C when it visited MPs at the House of Commons,

It comes as world-leading cancer centre The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity urges people to join its latest fundraising campaign by taking on any challenge beginning with C during September.

Ideas include going caffeine free for a week, clay-pigeon shooting, selling cakes, or holding a car boot sale for the centre which cares for around 50,000 cancer patients every year.

News Shopper: Senior shipkeeping technician Piran Harte with rigger Lee Harley

MP for Erith and Thamesmead Teresa Pearce, who stood with the Big C when it visited MPs at the House of Commons, said: “I am really excited about The Big C Challenge in September.

“I think that this initiative by the Royal Marsden is an excellent way to raise awareness of a disease that touches many people’s lives.

“The Big C Challenge will enable people to show their support to help tackle this condition by getting sponsorship for doing things they enjoy.

“I hope many people are able to participate in what I am sure will be a very successful month.”

Money raised will help fund pioneering work in cancer research, diagnosis, treatment and care for patients throughout the UK and beyond.

For more information about the Big C Challenge and to get involved, visit bigc.royalmarsden.org