13/10/2025
Local entertainer Pete Cunningham is turning laughter into lifesaving awareness with a Comedy Bingo Night in Bishop’s Stortford to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.
Pete, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year, is determined to use his platform as a performer to shine a spotlight on the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Thanks to catching the cancer early, Pete was able to undergo swift treatment and is now on the road to recovery.
“I was lucky,” Pete explains. “I didn’t have any of the typical symptoms people are warned about, but I knew something wasn’t right. I pushed for further checks, and that decision probably saved my life. Now I want to help others by raising awareness - and a bit of money too - for a cause that’s become close to my heart.”
Pete first began to feel unwell after completing a demanding run of two shows a day at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2024. Initially put down to exhaustion and overworking, he said he “just didn’t feel right” upon his return home, and when symptoms persisted, he sought medical advice and pushed for further tests.
A biopsy confirmed prostate cancer, but quick treatment using brachytherapy at Guy’s Hospital in early June meant he was able to return to the stage just a week later – headlining the Cabaret Stage at the Glastonbury Festival in June and performing two shows at the Edinburgh Festival 2025.
Now Pete is giving back in the way he knows best - through entertainment. His beloved 1970s-inspired comedy host character, Pete Perké, will take centre stage at a Comedy Bingo Night, blending laughter, music, and bingo with a serious message: If you don’t feel right, get checked and don’t ignore it.
Comedy Bingo Night
Saturday 8th November, 8pm
The Belgian Brewer, The Links Business Park, Raynham Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 5NZ
Tickets: £12.70 (incl. booking fee)
All proceeds from the event will go to Prostate Cancer UK, supporting lifesaving research and providing helpful support and information to those affected by the disease.
“This isn’t just about raising money,” Pete says. “It’s about starting conversations. If even one person decides to get checked because of this event, then it’s been worth it.”
For tickets and further information, please visit www.peterperke.com
