AN MP today revealed the secret behind his poor dress sense -- he has been dressing badly to raise cash for charity close to his heart.

Burnley MP Peter Pike has been dressing badly as part of the Loud Tie campaign launched by Beating Bowel Cancer.

And the revealed how he was happy to help a charity which raises cash for a cancer which affected his wife Sheila 11 years ago.

He has been sporting a "loud tie" to raise money Beating Bowel Cancer for research to enable more people to survive the disease as his spouse did.

The campaign is being spearheaded by TV presenter Richard Whiteley of Channel Four's Countdown.

Mr Whiteley, one of the UK's most celebrated loud tie wearers, and Mr Pike, who is not noted as Westminster's smartest dresser were present for the launch of the project in Parliament.

The aim is to encourage people to wear loud and wacky ties to have fun, raise awareness of bowel cancer and raise cash for the charity.

Mr Pike said: "The Loud Tie Campaign is a novel and fun way of supporting this and raising funds for the charity and their partners in this venture, Aventis, who research and develop medicines to tackle a range of cancers, including bowel cancer.

"My wife was diagnosed almost 11 years ago with bowel cancer. I know how important it is that we raise awareness. So many cases are treatable if caught early enough -- as my wife stands testament."

Mrs Pike, 67, said: " still go for annual check ups.

"I am pleased to see bowel cancer being given a high profile to highlight early diagnosis without which I may not still be here."