A group of builders from Kent have discovered what it feels like to be wolf-whistled after spending a month wearing pink jackets and helmets to raise awareness of breast cancer.

The workers from the Fountain Workshop in Chatham donned the dubious outfits in support of their boss David Bracey, who is fighting testicular cancer.

Despite being jeered at sites in Kings Cross, the Olympic Park, South Shields, Manchester and Bradford, the group have proved themselves gluttons for punishment.

A day after hanging up their pink attire at the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, they have begun growing moustaches for the Movember campaign.

So far they have raised more than £700.

Technical director Mr Bracey, 47, of Willington Street, Maidstone, said: “Every building site is a particularly testosterone driven environment and fair play to the guys as they have been given wolf whistles and all sorts.

“They have had enormous support. Lots of people asked why they were wearing pink.

“People often give a donation and ask to have their picture taken with them.”

Managing director Ian Kirkpatrick said: “We are delighted they have been prepared to take the flack they have been receiving on site.

“They have had jeers from both sexes, which has been entertaining, but they have embraced it and all said what a great idea it has been.

“They have had more people talk to them on site than ever before because people are intrigued by what they are doing.”

Mr Bracey was first diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2011. He was given the all clear in April but in August was told his cancer had returned and spread.

The idea for the pink attire came about during a discussion in the office at the Historic Dockyard when the company needed to buy new jackets and hard hats.

Mr Bracey said: “The girls joked about what colours they come in and suggested pink. I’m a big cricket fan and I know Middlesex play in pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month so I knew they could be on to something.

“It was driven by the girls but had the support of everyone.

“I feel this amazing, warm, fuzzy feeling about it all. I’m very proud of the company and everything we do. I’m not surprised they have taken this to heart. It is just what we do.

“This illness is not going to get the better of me but it is nice to know they have had the inspiration to do a little bit to show their support.”