Fleet Lions celebrates its 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours in 2026

Zoe Gater

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Join Fleet Lions for the 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026 – and boost local charities.

“Get the bike out of the garage, change the oil, check the plugs and give it a polish – unless it is in wonderful ‘as original’ condition, then please don’t show it the polishing rag, it will have a heart attack!”

Wise words from Fleet Lions who are revving up for this year’s Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026.

Polished or not, it’s time to register your bike and be part of this fantastic day of classic bikes, a great ride and good company all while supporting Fleet Lions for the early May bank holiday.

Starting in The Key car park at Elvetham Heath on the A323 Fleet to Hartley Wintney Road (///wallet.twinkling.bonkers), the event normally attracts well over 200 entrants with bikes ranging from the early 1900s to the later classics, with conditions varying from untouched original to gleaming concours restoration.

Riders come from far and wide around the South East to take part, with it becoming a well-established event in the enthusiasts’ calendar.

If you’ve not been recently or are a virgin in the classic bike world, join Fleet Lions for the 39th run from the car park around the Hampshire and Berkshire countryside and returning for the Concours in the afternoon.

The route will be the tried, tested and much-loved route that has been ridden on for many years (subject to change), which if you have not been before uses good country roads, not one-track lanes with loose gravel in the middle.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast between 9.30am and 10.30am courtesy of the Lions catering team, washed down with a tea or coffee at half price if you bring your own re-usable cup.

Enjoy catching up with riders and visitors, old and new, have a chat, compare notes and then you’ll be ‘fuelled up and ready for the off at 11am.

The road run is approximately 46 miles (subject to change). Route cards, numbers, and badges, etc., will be issued on registration at the start in the car park.

There will be no time checks or observed sections. Riders will be despatched at suitable intervals in order to avoid congestion.

The route is marked at junctions where a turn is required by arrows on the road signs.

The Calleva Arms in Silchester, roughly half way round the route, has kindly agreed to host any riders who wish to stop there for any refreshments.

Pre-registration costs £11 or £14 on the day.

All riders receive an enamel commemorative badge.

To take part, register here: fleetlions.org.uk/booking35 and for more information, including the Concours Classes, visit fleetlions.org.uk/fundraising/motorcycle.

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‘We are stronger together’ – how one Surrey charity is supporting children facing mental health challenges

Zoe Gater

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The Bee-lieve Foundation is supporting children in north west Surrey facing mental health challenges – and Laura Butler tells us more about its work.

The nation is facing a growing mental health crisis, with young people among the hardest hit.

Over half a million children and young people are currently on waiting lists for support, often struggling long before help becomes available.

Launched in July 2020, Bee-lieve Foundation is a registered UK charity dedicated to improving the emotional well-being and mental health of young people and their families.

The charity’s work is rooted in prevention, early intervention, and the belief that strong, connected communities can make a lasting difference.

Their vision: A future where children and young people are empowered to achieve positive emotional well-being and mental health.

Their mission: To educate and empower young people with the knowledge, skills and strategies they need to navigate today’s world with resilience and confidence, helping to prevent difficulties from escalating and enabling them to thrive, not just survive.

Bee-lieve works closely with schools, clubs, parents and professional partners to deliver teaching programmes, whole-staff training, early-intervention therapies and workshops.

By breaking down barriers and challenging stigma through open conversation, they help ensure young people feel confident seeking support when they need it most.

One of their most important initiatives is ‘Make a Difference for Molly’, a flagship programme for 2026.

Created in memory of Molly, a much-loved young woman who tragically took her own life in 2023, aged just 21, the project is at the heart of everything they do.

“Molly was funny, kind and creative, lighting up every room she entered, yet she struggled with her mental health for many years. Her legacy drives our determination to ensure other families don’t face the same heartbreak.”

‘The Molly Project’ brings schools, families and communities together to create safe, supportive spaces where young people feel seen, heard and valued.

The pilot programme across Woking and northwest Surrey is already supporting over 450 school staff and more than 4,000 young people and their families.

As a not-for-profit organisation, their work relies entirely on the generosity of the wider community. Donations of any size make a real difference.

In 2026, Bee-lieve will once again take part in the Woking Lions Martian Race on June 21st – to run for Team Bee-lieve sign up at: go.wokinglions.org.uk/bee-lieve.

“Bee-lieve isn’t just a name, it’s our story, our symbol and our promise to future generations.”

Find out more at beelievefoundation.co.uk

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How one Buckinghamshire charity is helping those facing redundancy

Zoe Gater

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After the shock of redundancy, Bucks charity Careers Springboard could help with the next step in your career.

For many senior managers in their late 40s and 50s, being made redundant can make them feel like the rug has been pulled from under their feet.

Alongside the financial impact, losing a long-held role can very often trigger a sense of uncertainty about your career path, your professional identity, and what comes next.

IT professional Paul Christopher knows this experience all too well.

“Redundancy is no picnic,” he says. “With its financial and professional impact, it has been one of the toughest periods of my life.”

Like many experienced managers, he initially returned to familiar methods – updating an old CV and applying for roles the way he had years before. Progress was slow, and doubt began to creep in.

Living locally, Paul was aware of Careers Springboard, a Bucks-based charity supporting jobseekers across the Home Counties. Initially sceptical, he eventually attended a weekly Zoom introduction session.

“Immediately, it was helpful to speak with other people facing similar challenges,” he says. “The session gave me a clear perspective on how to present myself professionally and think strategically about my next move.”

Working one-to-one with a volunteer adviser, Paul not only refined his CV but also learned how to position himself for senior roles and focus on the kind of opportunity that would advance his career.

Beyond practical advice, Careers Springboards structured webinars and networking sessions gave him clarity and reassurance about his direction.

The results were clear. After months of slow progress, Paul landed multiple interviews and two job offers in one week.

“Careers Springboard helped me move forward and secure the role that was the next step in my career,” he says.

Careers Springboard is run by highly qualified volunteers and offers free career coaching, CV development, mock interviews, LinkedIn guidance and networking opportunities, both virtual and face-to-face.

Senior managers facing redundancy don’t have to navigate it alone.

To find out more, please visit careersspringboard.org.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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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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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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Award-winning Oxfordshire charity leads the way for National Year of Reading

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Could you join the ARCh charity champions and volunteer to help Oxfordshire children read with confidence? 

2026 has been officially designated the National Year of Reading – a nationwide initiative to improve literacy and foster a lifelong love of books among children.

At the heart of this effort is Oxfordshire’s award-winning charity, Assisted Reading for Children (ARCh) which works with primary schools across the county to help every child become a confident reader. 

As a delivery partner for the National Year of Reading, ARCh is turning national ambition into local action.

The charity provides one-to-one reading sessions, pairing children with trained volunteers in a calm, supportive environment.

This approach encourages children who may need extra help to develop essential literacy skills, while also building confidence and nurturing a love of reading. 

“Just one hour a week can make a huge difference to a child’s life.” 

Research consistently shows that strong reading skills are linked to better educational and life outcomes, making ARCh’s work more vital than ever.

To meet growing demand, the charity is calling on Oxfordshire residents to volunteer — no teaching experience is required, just patience, enthusiasm, and a love of books.

Volunteers receive training and ongoing support, and many describe the experience as deeply rewarding. 

ARCh also partners with local businesses through Employee Volunteering schemes, giving staff the opportunity to spend an hour a week supporting children in their local schools. 

A little time can make a huge difference.

To volunteer or find out more about workplace partnerships, email info@archoxfordshire.org.uk or visit archoxfordshire.org.uk. 

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Design a card for Cardiac Health’s 50th anniversary

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Cardiac Health and Alton FC launch a competition inviting children to design a ‘heartfelt thank you card’ for the local charity.

Based in Alton, Cardiac Health helps people lead stronger, healthier lives through exercise.

Guided by skilled, British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (BACPR) qualified instructors, participants undertake tailored exercise programmes with medical oversight.

In 2026, the charity is celebrating 50 years of operation in the town, helping exercisers regain confidence, stay active, and take control of their health.

To mark the occasion, Cardiac Health is launching a year of anniversary celebrations — including an art and design competition, with the charity inviting children from Alton Football Club and local schools to design a ‘heartfelt thank you card’.

Since July 2025, Alton Football Club has been its charity fundraising partner. And this week, the pair jointly launched the competition in the busy gym at Cardiac Health on Chawton Park Road.

Denise Ellis, Centre Manager at Cardiac Health, said: “So many local people have been supported by Cardiac Health over the last 50 years; it’s been a pillar of the community since Dr Hugh Bethell first launched the ‘cardiac rehab’ exercise sessions at Alton Sports Centre in 1976.

“Partnering with Alton Football Club for this, our 50th anniversary year, makes so much sense as health, fitness, exercise and community are at the heart of everything we do. I am so pleased that Carl and the team at Alton FC have agreed to help us launch this competition and provide some of the prizes. I can’t wait to see the entries!”

Cardiac Health will invite every child who enters the competition to see their design on display at their dedicated exercise centre in Alton on Thursday 26th March 2026.

As well as seeing the wonderful artwork, children and their families will be offered after-school refreshments and given a chance to tour the facilities at Cardiac Health.

From the entries, competition judges will choose one overall design to be used as a special charity thank you card. Each age group will also be awarded a prize for the most creative design.

The closing date for this competition is Saturday 28th February 2026. Entries must fit on a single sheet of A4 paper and be accompanied by:

Name and age of child

Name, email address and telephone number of a parent or guardian.

All entries must be submitted to Cardiac Health, Chawton Park Road, Alton GU34 IRQ.

Digital or photographed entries will not be accepted.

See the full terms and conditions of entry here: https://cardiachealth.org.uk/about/news/can-you-design-a-heartfelt-thank-you-card-for-us/

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Will power in Oxfordshire 

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Round & About

Three Oxfordshire hospices have joined forces to increase vital Gifts in Wills donations 

Sobell House, Helen & Douglas House, and Katharine House say that legacy fundraising – when a person leaves money to a charity in their Will – is an increasingly vital source of revenue and they are now reliant on it to form a significant portion of their overall fundraising income. 

The nature of giving to charity via your Will means people can make a crucial difference to hospice care in Oxfordshire without it impacting finances now, when many households and families are financially stretched and making charitable contributions can be difficult. 

Beth Marsh, Sobell House Hospice Charity’s Director of Fundraising said: “Income from regular donations is increasingly unpredictable. Legacy gifts are an alternative way to give and are vital as demand for hospice services continues to grow. Even the most modest of gifts makes a significant impact. It’s not only financial donations – physical items, land, shares and many other assets can be left to a charity in a Will” 

About 25% of Sobell House’s fundraised income, currently comes from gifts in Wills. Trustee, Greg Birdseye, made the decision to update his will to include the charity after his wife passed away at the hospice. Greg said: 

“My wife Penny was referred to Sobell House after a number of treatments in hospital for lung cancer. After Penny died, I was more than happy to update my Will to include a legacy to the charity. I would encourage anyone to consider doing the same. I’ve seen first-hand the difference it makes.” 

At Katharine House Hospice, legacy gifts currently support 1 in 10 of the patients they care for but they’re urging people to help them increase this number. 

Stephanie Lawless, Director of Fundraising & Marketing at Katharine House said: “A growing demand for our specialist services, combined with rising costs, means Katharine House is spending more than it can raise. Gifts in Wills are a vital part of the solution and will make a real impact across Oxfordshire. 

“The compassionate care provided at Katharine House Hospice, like other hospices, is not just for the patients but also for their family members too. One of our patients, Cat, was able to use our cuddle bed (funded by donors) so she could spend precious time with her son Archie. Hospice care isn’t just about specialist clinical support, but also about making every moment matter for the whole family.” 

At Helen & Douglas House Children’s Hospice, legacy gifts fund vital services such as bereavement counselling and specialist paediatric palliative care for children. 

Joanna Swindells Carr has chosen to leave a Gift in her Will to Helen & Douglas House after the hospice supported their family with respite and expert medical care for daughter Beatrice for six years, before she passed away in the hospice. 

Joanna said: “‘I have chosen to leave a gift in my Will as a thank you for the superlative care, physical, emotional and respite, that Helen & Douglas House gave to our daughter, Beatrice, and our family for six years. I hope that a gift to Helen & Douglas House will help them to continue giving their incomparable and compassionate care to other life-limited children and their families.” 

Alex Hegenbarth at Helen & Douglas House said: Helen & Douglas House cares for 580 children, parents and siblings a year and the gifts received from Wills go a long way to helping us provide the care and support these local families need.” 

The three Oxfordshire hospices will all be part of Hospice UK’s National TV campaign in September which encourages people to leave a gift in their Will to their local hospice. 

For more information on leaving a gift in your Will to your local hospice go to: Sobell House

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Riding Strong for Charity: Farnham on the Move

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Pedal power will be at the forefront of this year’s Farnham Charity Bike Ride next month

Get Ready for the Farnham Charity Bike Ride 2025!

Chained to your bike or ‘all the gear but no idea’? No matter your cycling experience, the Farnham Charity Bike Ride has a route for you.

Pump up your tyres and oil your chain for Sunday, 21st September, when cyclists of all levels will ride through the stunning Surrey and Hampshire countryside.

Now in its 16th year, the Farnham Charity Bike Ride offers something for everyone. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow riders and, most importantly, ride to support great local causes!

Routes for Every Rider

Choose from four looped routes: a family-friendly 16 miles or a scenic 25-mile route across rolling hills. For more experienced cyclists, take on the classic 50-mile ride or challenge yourself with the tough 75-mile route that includes Butser Hill—the highest point in the South Downs.

Supporting Local Causes

The ride benefits several charities, including The Hedgehogs, St Andrew’s School PTA, and the Royal Surrey Charity Cancer Centre. The Hedgehogs, founded in 1959, is Farnham’s local charity dedicated to helping people in need. In the last decade alone, they have raised over £300,000.

A Community Effort

The Farnham Charity Bike Ride began in 2009 when parents at St Andrew’s School needed funds for a new roof. Since then, the event has grown significantly. Many teachers and parents volunteer during the ride to help with registration, marshalling, and refreshments. Furthermore, riders can fundraise for charities close to their hearts, making the event even more meaningful.

Fuel Up and Celebrate

Along the route, refreshment stops will offer the famous flapjacks and other tasty treats to keep you energized. Additionally, cheerful marshals will support you throughout the ride.

Everyone will start and finish in Farnham, where you can claim your medal and join the post-ride celebrations.

This year, get involved with the Farnham Charity Bike Ride and pedal for a purpose!

To get involved and find out more please visit here.

To read more about surrey, click here.

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