Ross giveaway sparks chain reaction

Beckham's berry bonanza

Beckham's berry bonanza

London commuters did a double take this morning when David Beckham and Diana Ross look-a-likes teamed up to hand out punnets of strawberries on Oxford Street to kick off Fruity Friday.

Andy Harmer and Deanne Keanne, pictured as their alter egos, drew in the crowds - and had a lot of people confused - as part of the World Cancer Research Fund’s (WCRF) annual event to raise awareness about cancer prevention.

A total of 4,000 free punnets of strawberries were given out to Londoners.

The WCRF has linked up with British Summer Fruits to promote the consumption of fruit and vegetables to help prevent cancer, as well as to celebrate the start of the UK berry season.

Lucis Galice, general manager of the WCRF, said: “I think we will fool quite a few people with our prank today. Hopefully it will help us get across the message that while Andy and Deanne might be a great substitute for David and Diana, there is no substitute when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle.

“When you think that so many cases of cancer could be prevented just by healthy eating and regular exercise, it brings it home to you how important eating fruit and vegetables is. With the hustle and bustle of commuting into the centre of London, it can sometimes be all too easy to snack on the wrong things, so this is about giving people a helping hand in choosing the healthy option.”

BSF chairman Laurence Olins added: “British Summer Fruits is delighted to support WCRF for the second year in their very worthwhile cause. Everything we do to promote our fruits is aimed at informing and reassuring consumers how good berries are for them.

“Working together gives us access to consumers of all ages - from primary school children to commuters. We are looking forward to building on the success of last year’s campaign and continuing the programme of education. The anti-cancer message is important, and Fruity Friday is a key date in our promotional activity this year.”