Spring days out in Wiltshire: Easter trails, timeless treasures & family adventures

Zoe Gater

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Blossom drifts across ancient landscapes, steam engines roar back to life and safari stories unfold — spring invites families to slow down and savour adventure across Wiltshire and beyond.

Spring arrives softly but surely… in blossom-frothed branches, lighter mornings and the unmistakable sight of lambs and ducklings finding their feet. As winter finally fades, this beautiful corner of the world calls us outdoors once more.

Now is the perfect time to explore at a gentler pace — whether that means egg hunts in historic gardens, steam trains puffing into action or hands-on encounters with animals great and small. Here’s our pick of the best family-friendly activities this season.

Steam & Stories at Crofton Beam Engines

Step back in time at Crofton Beam Engines in Marlborough. Over the Easter weekend, the world’s oldest working beam engines will be in steam, pumping water as they have for over 200 years.

There’s a fun Easter egg trail, traditional duck races along the leat and a craft area where you’ll find materials for little ones to decorate bonnets, eggs and more. Friendly volunteers will be on hand to share fascinating stories, while the Smithy Tea Room offers refreshments and the scenic grounds are perfect for picnics and canal walks.

For more information, visit croftonbeamengines.org

Spring Trails at Avebury & Stourhead

Explore the ancient wonders of Avebury, where the National Trust treasure’s classic gardens and vast prehistoric surroundings are perfect for spring family walks and Easter trail from 27th March to 12th April.

Children can complete activities full of springtime joy dotted around the garden and collect a chocolate prize. And head south to the stunning Stourhead estate near Mere, where the family Easter trail runs between 21st March and 19th April.

For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Arts & Crafts Charm at Kelmscott Manor

William Morris’s much-loved retreat Kelmscott Manor reopens for the season, looking particularly lush.

Set beside the Thames and surrounded by orchards and meadows, it’s a peaceful place for older children to stretch their legs and soak up a little Arts & Crafts magic. Expect thoughtful family trails, beautiful gardens coming into bloom and a step back into a slower, storybook England.

For more information, visit kelmscottmanor.org.uk

Wildlife Wonders at Nature Discovery Centre

Join the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham for fresh air and wildlife discoveries as you help mother fox find her missing cubs and discover the other baby animals in a fun family trail for Easter, 7th-9th April

Book your place at bbowt.org.uk/events

Timeless Treasures at Lacock Abbey

Lacock near Chippenham is always a charming day out.

Enjoy the picturesque village and Abbey gardens with family-friendly Easter adventures and trails around the grounds, where little ones can solve activities and claim a chocolate egg.

For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Music in Bloom at Newbury Spring Festival

Newbury Spring Festival brings two weeks of world-class music to the town and its surrounding villages, with more than 45 events across 20 local venues, featuring leading international artists alongside outstanding emerging talent.

The events span many different genres including jazz, musical theatre, cabaret, world music, folk music, choral music, ballet, chamber music, solo recitals, brass bands and gospel choirs.

Find out what’s on at newburyspringfestival.org.uk

Play & Produce at Cobbs Farm Shop

Foodies’ fave Cobbs Farm Shop in Hungerford hosts lovely Mother’s Day treats and has a great Play Barn and outdoor spaces, perfect for spring family days out with imaginative play, sandpits and the seasonal café open for snacks and lunches.

Spring craft sessions and kids’ play barn activities have run in recent years, and the farm shop is brimming with seasonal goodies – ideal for a visit with little ones over the holidays.

For more information, visit cobbsfarmshops.co.uk.

Rare Breeds & Alpaca Walks at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm

Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm towards Salisbury is the perfect day out for families. Get up close with friendly rare-breed animals, book an alpaca walk, enjoy hands-on encounters and let the kids run wild in the outdoor play areas.

Tuck into delicious food and drink from the on-site café, plenty of picnic spots and exciting seasonal fun.

For more information, visit choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com

Safari Adventures at Longleat Safari Park

A scenic drive away, Longleat Safari Park is in full spring spirit with its Once Upon an Easter programme running from 28th March to 19th April.

Follow an eggs-traordinary story trail inspired by beloved tales, where classic characters and imaginative scenes come to life across the estate, leading to a chocolate treat at the end – all included with your day ticket.

Alongside seasonal storytelling and craft, there’s plenty to discover: meet curious wildlife from lions and tigers to koalas, try the UK’s longest hedge maze, enjoy the Jungle Cruise, or explore historic Longleat House.

Longleat is also celebrating the 60th anniversary of its safari park, with an anniversary garden party weekend on 11th & 12th April.

For more information, visit longleat.co.uk.

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Waddesdon Manor unveils vibrant programme of spring events for 2026

Zoe Gater

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Hosting everything from winter walking tours and Easter adventures to Pudding Clubs and Mother’s Day afternoon teas, Waddesdon Manor has plenty to offer this spring.

Waddesdon Manor has announced an exciting selection of springtime activities throughout March and April 2026, with a programme spanning indulgent Pudding Clubs and afternoon teas to beautiful tours both inside and outdoors at the Manor.

Upcoming highlights include Winter Walking Tours. Taking place on Wednesdays and Sundays from 18 February to 22 March 2026, visitors can admire the beauty of the gardens in wintertime – and keep an eye out for aconites and hellebores, along with rarely visible views across Aylesbury Vale.

Showcasing three fabulous desserts created in-house by the Head Patissier, satisfy your sweet toth at the Pudding Club at the Manor Restaurant on Saturday 14 March, from 7pm.

Starting with canapés and sparkling wine in the Wine Cellars, the four-course menu celebrates the rich tradition of British desserts.

Light artist Bruno Munro returns to Waddesdon for the first UK collaboration with his daughter Tink Munro, from 27 March 2026 with the Four Seasons exhibition, exploring time, place, and the natural environment through light, sound, and sustainable materials.

It will be shown in the Coach House Gallery and includes a piece that translates the music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons into dynamic light.

Little ones can take part in an Easter Adventure Trail on various dates throughout March and April. Packed with games, creative activities, and, of course, chocolate eggs, simply pick up your trail sheet on arrival at the Welcome Pavilion or Visitor Information.

Running throughout the year, visitors can discover the stories of the rare, precious objects on display and learn about the tradition of treasure rooms as part of A Rothschild Treasure: Tours.

The Rothschild Treasury houses more than 300 objects made from rare and precious materials – from a 1st-century cameo of Augustus Caesar’s grandson to jewellery gifted by Queen Victoria, gold boxes, and more.

For the full programme or to book, visit Waddesdon Manor’s website.

Easter Trail © Waddesdon Manor Image Library, Chris Lacey

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Guildford Shakespeare Company marks 20 years by expanding life-changing knife crime awareness work

Zoe Gater

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Not only celebrating its 20th year in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company’s pioneering knife crime awareness programme has reached over 2,000 young people in its first term.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) is not only reflecting on two decades of bold, accessible theatre but also reaffirming its commitment to young people across Surrey through a pioneering knife crime awareness initiative.

And at the centre of this work is its eight-week awareness programme for Year 9 students – Put Up Your Swords.

Using Romeo and Juliet as a framework to explore the realities of knife crime, the scheme encourages young people to examine choices, consequences and safer alternatives within a supportive environment.

Delivered in partnership with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, the University of Surrey, Fearless, the Kiyan Prince Foundation and Charlie’s Promise, the project combines drama workshops, professional stage combat training, guest speakers with lived experience, and a mock court case hosted at the University of Surrey – where Romeo himself stands trial.

Since its launch, Put Up Your Swords has reached more than 2,000 students across six Surrey schools, and an independent evaluation shows a marked shift in knowledge and attitudes.

By the end of the programme, 83% of participants understood that carrying a knife does not make them safer – up from 50% at the outset – while 74% knew where to access support, compared with 35% before taking part.

Teachers have described the initiative as both worthwhile and transformative, highlighting its ability to engage students who may struggle in more traditional classroom settings.

Kerrie Driscoll, GSC’s Creative Learning Producer, said: “Too many young people face life-changing consequences because they didn’t believe they had safer choices. That’s why working hand-in-hand with partner organisations, schools, local authorities, and our wider community is vital.

“Together, we can provide the guidance and real alternatives that help young people step away from danger and reduce the devastating impact of knife-related violence.”

The company plans to expand Put Up Your Swords to reach more schools across Surrey and beyond.

For more information or to get involved, contact Kerrie Driscoll at kerrie@guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk.

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See legendary British sports broadcaster John Inverdale at Cranleigh Arts

Zoe Gater

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From Wimbledon and the Olympic Games to the Rugby and Football World Cups and more, don’t miss renowned sports broadcaster John Inverdale when he sits down with racing journalist Brough Scott at Cranleigh Arts this spring.

Celebrating the world of sport and broadcasting, Surrey’s Cranleigh Arts hosts a special evening with a voice familiar to millions, as legendary sports presenter John Inverdale sits down in conversation with Trustee and racing journalist Brough Scott.

Taking place on Thursday 5 March 2026 from 7.30pm, the live event explores John’s illustrious career, which spans more than four decades, exploring the moments that have shaped him into one of the most recognisable voices in British sports broadcasting.

Over the years, John has guided audiences through iconic sporting occasions across radio and television – from the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cups to Wimbledon, the Five and Six Nations Championships, the Ryder Cup, the Grand National, Cheltenham Festival, and even the World’s Strongest Man competition.

Offering rare behind-the-scenes insight into the magic of live broadcasting – along with the pressures, triumphs and unforgettable moments – audiences can expect anecdotes from John’s early days reading the news on BBC Radio Lincolnshire to interviewing some of the most prestigious figures in the sporting world.

The evening’s proceeds will be shared equally between Cranleigh Arts and The John Hunt Family Foundation, supporting the continued work of both organisations.

For more information or to book tickets, email sophie@cranleigharts.org or operations@cranleigharts.org.

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A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings arcane antics to Oxford

Zoe Gater

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Enter a world of magic and mischief when Oxford Playhouse presents a bold, darker take on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream this spring 2026.

Shining candlelight on the shadowy underbelly of one of Shakespeare’s most-loved plays, Oxford Playhouse offers an imaginative retelling of the classic, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this spring.

Running from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th March 2026, audiences are invited into an enchanted forest where the natural world is upside down, the Fairy Queen Titania and King Oberon quarrel with dangerous intensity, and four young lovers fleeing the city become caught in a night of chaos. .

Following its run at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in London, this new production – by Headlong in partnership with Shakespeare’s Globe – brings a striking, contemporary vision to the classic tale.

Audiences can expect live music, inventive set and costume design, and engaging moments as the familiar comedy is reimagined through a darker, unsettling lens.

Directed by Holly Race Roughan and co-directed by Naeem Hayat, the cast — including Hedydd Dylan, Dannie Harris, Jack Humphrey, Lou Jackson, Pria Kalsi, Danny Kirrane, and Tiwa Lade — draws on experience from the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe, and beyond to bring the forest’s lovers, mechanicals, and magical creatures to life.

Holly Race Roughan, said: “The world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a turbulent one, the natural environment is upside down and unpredictable, and the political and social landscape is on edge, creating a sense of tension that we are all experiencing today.

This new staging will explore some of the darker elements of Shakespeare’s well-known comedy, turning it on its head and asking us to reexamine its themes and subject matter.

Following a highly successful collaboration on Henry V, it is a joy to be partnering once again with Shakespeare’s Globe and our committed national partners to allow audiences to meet this play in the moment we are in.”

For more information or to book, visit Oxford Playhouse’s website.

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Reading Pancake Race 2026: £8,200 raised to support homelessness

Zoe Gater

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Sunshine, sizzling pancakes and fancy dress filled Broad Street as Launchpad’s 29th annual Reading Pancake Race raised £8,200 to support people facing homelessness — with one team flipping their way to victory.

Broad Street was flipping fantastic this Shrove Tuesday 2026 as Reading’s much-loved Pancake Race returned, bringing sunshine, standout costumes and a sizzling £8,200 fundraising total.

Now in its 29th year, the annual event organised by Launchpad saw 21 teams from local businesses and community groups battle it out for the coveted frying pan trophy – all while raising vital funds to support people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Reading.

Crowds lined the town centre street to cheer on colleagues, friends and family as teams raced in a series of knock-out heats, flipping pancakes as they sprinted.

The grand finale drew plenty of excitement, with long-time Launchpad supporter Andy Briggs keeping energy levels high as compère.

The Mayor of Reading, Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, presented the prizes to this year’s winners.

And the winners are…

Taking the 2026 crown were Air IT, whose Scooby Doo–inspired fancy dress helped secure them the title of Launchpad’s 29th champions. Alongside the iconic frying pan trophy, they won a cocktail masterclass for four at The Roseate Reading.

Second place went to Rowberry Morris, who received drinks and a day pass at Novotel Reading Centre, while Evoke Transport came third, winning afternoon tea courtesy of Crumbs.

There were plenty of additional accolades handed out on the day, too:

Top fundraisers include Abbey School, raising an impressive £874 and winning afternoon tea at Vino Vita, with second-best fundraisers, Davis Tate, winning pizza and beer from Zero Degrees Brewery.

Field Seymour Parkes won best fancy dress and were awarded a £60 voucher from Honest Burger for their Charlie and the Chocolate Factory–inspired costumes.

Evoke Transport were highly commended, scooping a £50 voucher for The Plough Shiplake thanks to their bananas-and-eggs outfits.

And best team spirit went to Field Seymour Parkes, winning cinema tickets to The Biscuit Factory.

Fiona Keyte, fundraising manager at Launchpad, said the atmosphere was better than ever.

“The Pancake Race never fails to be fantastic – especially as we managed to have a rain-free event! The costumes, laughter, crowds and community spirit were incredible this year.

We’re so grateful to the hundreds of supporters who lined the street, the generous local businesses who donated prizes, and our wonderful volunteers. This fun-filled event has a serious purpose: to raise funds and awareness for those in our community who are homeless or at risk of losing their homes.”

The £8,200 raised — and counting — will support Launchpad’s work providing advice, accommodation and tailored support to people facing housing crises in Reading.

Founded in 1979, the charity helped more than 1,800 people in housing crisis last year alone, including rough sleepers, sofa surfers and those facing eviction.

For more information about Launchpad or to donate, visit Launchpad Reading’s website.

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Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

Zoe Gater

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From sparkling river cruises and indulgent afternoon teas to hands‑on workshops and soothing spa escapes, here’s our pick of wonderful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day across Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30th March in 2026, offering the perfect excuse to slow down and show your appreciation.

Whether she loves time on the water, a decadent dining experience, hands-on creativity or pure relaxation, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to celebrate close to home this year.

River cruises

Treat mum to a relaxing cruise along the River Thames this Mother’s Day.

Enjoy three hours of sailing with Hobbs of Henley, complete with afternoon tea and a ‘Sparkling Lady’ cocktail on arrival. In Bray, choose a two-course lunch or afternoon tea cruise with Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company, while Thames Rivercruise in Caversham offers scenic trips with dining options. It’s a stylish, stress‑free way to celebrate on the water with springtime views in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Afternoon tea

For mums who prefer dry land, there are plenty of indulgent options. Enjoy heritage surroundings at Waddesdon Manor, refined riverside luxury at Cliveden House, or sweeping Thames views with delicate pastries at Danesfield House Hotel & Spa.

Head west to Wiltshire’s Lucknam Park for a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea with spa add‑ons, or treat her to a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea experience in Surrey’s vineyards with sparkling wine. Traditional finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a glass of fizz make it a memorable celebration.

Creative workshops

Gift a hands-on experience with creative workshops across the region. Try a Mother’s Day Bouquet Workshop at Coppa Club Henley or Buckingham Flower Farm, or explore modern calligraphy at Farnham Maltings in Surrey.

For something crafty, book a candle-making workshop at Bicester Candles & Crafts and family-friendly glass fusing workshops at Wokingham Countryside Centre are also great for little helpers. These shared experiences leave mum with something handmade and memorable.

Spa days

If relaxation tops her wish list, a spa day is always a winner. Treat mum to indulgent spa packages at Pennyhill Park, known for its extensive thermal facilities, multiple pools and wide range of high‑end treatments in a luxurious Surrey countryside setting.

For a truly lavish retreat, enjoy the elegant wellness facilities at The Spa at Coworth Park in Sunningdale near Ascot, set in a Georgian country estate with refined spa therapies and scenic surroundings. Taplow House Hotel & Spa also offers pampering treatments in a serene setting, perfect for a full day of unwinding and celebrating Mother’s Day in style.

Scenic walks

For mums who love fresh air, a walk through flowering arboretums and historic forests provides a tranquil springtime escape for Mother’s Day.

Explore the bluebell trails and diverse tree collections at Winkworth Arboretum or explore the mature woodland trails at Alice Holt Forest – both in Surrey. Meander along the peaceful paths of Harcourt Arboretum in Oxfordshire and stroll among the ancient oaks and expansive glades of Savernake Forest in Wiltshire.

Dining out

A classic Sunday lunch never goes out of style. Book a riverside table at The Angel on the Bridge in Henley, enjoy refined dining at The Waterside Inn, or opt for relaxed country charm at The Crown at Bray.

For mums with a sweet tooth, check out spots like The Pot Kiln in Thatcham and The Great House in Sonning, where indulgent desserts are plentiful. Treats include chocolate custard cream cones, rhubarb sorbet with gingerbread, treacle tart with rum & raisin ice cream, and white chocolate crème brûlée with orange shortbread — all perfect for a decadent finish.

Family-focused events

Celebrate Mother’s Day with fun, hands-on activities across the region. Take part in the Roald Dahl Ramble: Matilda’s Mother’s Day Walk in Great Missenden on Sunday 15 March 2026 or explore spring gardens and trails at Cliveden.

Further afield, treat mum to a gentle Alpaca Walk at Hensting Alpacas in Hampshire, spot rare breed animals at Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park in Buckingham – with mums going free for the weekend – or head to Rumsey’s Chocolaterie for handmade Mother’s Day lollipops.

Local gifts: Memberships, drinks & artisan hampers

Prefer something to wrap? Celebrate local makers with artisan hampers from independent farm shops, small-batch spirits from producers such as Henley Distillery, or a vineyard tour and tasting at Stanlake Park Wine Estate.

For a gift that keeps giving, consider annual memberships to organisations like National Trust — opening the door to hundreds of historic houses and gardens — tickets for Blenheim Palace Flower Show and a theatre membership or gift voucher for venues such as Oxford Playhouse or Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

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Free sweets for Buckinghamshire locals this Valentine’s Day

Zoe Gater

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High Wycombe gets a sweet new addition this Valentine’s Day as Ambala opens its latest store, serving handcrafted Indian mithai, savouries, and exciting prizes for early visitors.

Mithai fans in High Wycombe are in for a treat this Valentine’s Day when confectionery brand, Ambala, opens its brand-new store on Saturday 14th February 2026.

Visitors can indulge in Ambala’s signature handcrafted sweets and savouries, from festive favourites like barfi and gulab jamun to everyday treats such as samosas and ladoos, all made using traditional recipes.

Marking the occasion, the first 100 customers will receive a mystery envelope with a special prize, no purchase needed.

Plus, families can meet a surprise mascot, enjoy complimentary mithai and cake throughout the day, and even enter to win mithai for life.

Sukh Chamdal, CEO of Ambala, said: “We are thrilled to bring Ambala to High Wycombe. Our mission has always been to share the authentic taste of traditional Indian mithai, and we can’t wait to welcome the local community with our handmade sweets.”

Located at 132 Desborough Road, High Wycombe, HP11 2PU, Ambala is part of a network of over 20 stores nationwide, blending generations-old recipes with modernised packaging and a refreshed look.

For more information or to order online, visit Ambala’s website.

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Take part in a real recording session in Guildford

Zoe Gater

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Take part in a hands-on guitar recording masterclass at Lark Studios Guildford, covering miking techniques, re-amping, signal flow and processing for acoustic and electric guitar.

Join a masterclass focusing on the art of recording guitar at Lark Studios in Guildford, on Monday 30th March 2026.

This unique opportunity is designed for music creators and enthusiasts who aspire to enhance their guitar recording skills and elevate their productions.

Led by the studio’s head engineer, this session will delve into key topics such as microphone techniques, signal flow, re-amping, hardware versus plugins and processing for both acoustic and electric guitar recordings.

Participants will get the chance to experience a real-world recording session featuring a guest artist while assisting the head engineer.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get some hands-on studio experience, or are more experienced and want to refine your theoretical knowledge, this workshop offers a fantastic platform to learn and interact with other like-minded music creators and guitarists.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and take the first step in expanding your recording skills!

For more information or to register, contact Lark Studios Guildford at studio@larkrecordings.com or call 01483 958511.

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Breast Cancer Now Pink Ribbon Walk 2026: UK charity walks at Hampton Court, Blenheim Palace and more

Zoe Gater

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Breast Cancer Now’s annual Pink Ribbon fundraising walks are back and raising vital funds for lifesaving research and life-changing support – one step at a time.

Breast Cancer Now’s iconic Pink Ribbon Walks are returning to beauty hotspots and historic cityscapes in the UK for their 21st year in 2026 – calling outdoor lovers to step up now for a 10 or 20-mile walk to help change the future of breast cancer.

On various dates from April to June, the walks take place across four beautiful locations and are a perfect challenge for newbie walkers and seasoned hikers alike.

Walks include:

• Saturday 18 April – Hampton Court Palace and the Thames Path
• Saturday 9 May – Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds
• Sunday 17 May – Chatsworth House and the Peak District
• Saturday 20 June – Edinburgh at Holyrood Park

Since they began, the Pink Ribbon Walks have raised over £15.5m for Breast Cancer Now and when we first walked in 2005, 8 in 10 women in the UK survived breast cancer for 5 or more years. Now, it’s 9 in 10. That’s the power of science and support in action.

The need today for support has never been more important. One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK every 9 minutes and a man every day. And if nothing is done to change this, one woman will be diagnosed with breast cancer every 8 minutes by 2040.

Every step you take. Every mile you walk. It all helps fund our lifesaving science and life-changing support.

For more information or to book your Pink Ribbon Walk this spring, visit Breast Cancer Now’s website.

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