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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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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Join the Magic of Midsummer Night’s Dream at Wylds Farm

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Petersfield Shakespeare Festival returns for another walk on the Wyld Side, July 18th-20th, and as Lucy and Clare reveal this year’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be dedicated to a much-missed friend 

Petersfield Shakespeare Festival Returns with a Magical Midsummer Night’s Dream

In 2021, as lockdown lifted, the Petersfield Shakespeare Festival transformed the Covid nightmare into a joyous celebration with A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The play’s festive spirit perfectly matched its magical setting. Although rehearsals were unusual and socially distanced, the performances thrilled audiences. Special guests, including a full moon and a rainbow, even appeared, adding to the enchantment.

A Tribute and Revival for 2025

Because the production was so successful, the festival will revive A Midsummer Night’s Dream this summer. This year’s performances will honour the late Jon-Paul Rowden, a talented actor who played Bottom. To celebrate his memory, the festival will donate all proceeds to the charity MIND.

An Enchanting Experience in Nature

Eight versatile actors will again delight audiences with a timeless classic performed beneath an ancient oak tree. This magical spot lies within the woodland wonders of Wylds Christmas Tree Farm in Liss.

The evening starts with tasty refreshments and live music at the Bottoms Up bar. Afterwards, the audience will promenade “en masse” up the hill and enter the enchanted forest. Here, fairies wage war, lovers quarrel, and an amateur acting troupe secretly rehearses a play. What could possibly go wrong?

Family-Friendly Festival Atmosphere

Visitors can arrive early to enjoy the family-friendly festival vibe and beautiful surroundings before the show begins. Tickets remain affordable to encourage everyone to join, and concessions are available. For more details and bookings, visit psfest.co.uk or purchase tickets in person at One Tree Books, Lavant Street, Petersfield GU32 3EL.

About Petersfield Shakespeare Festival and Wylds Farm

Now in its 13th season, the Petersfield Shakespeare Festival continues to enrich the local cultural scene. It started in 2012 when drama teachers united to feed their creative appetites during summer holidays. Since then, it has delighted audiences with outdoor theatre.

Wylds Farm focuses on creating family festive experiences for adults and children to remember. The farm hosts seasonal events year-round. For example, in November and December, the Christmas spirit shines during the Postbox Trail. Visitors send letters to Father Christmas and follow woodland signs to find the iconic red postbox atop a small hill.

More details click here.

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Phil Grant Muscular Dystrophy: Standing Strong with Heart

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You’ve probably encountered Phil Grant, 61, from Charlbury, maybe as his alter ego Wonder Woman, during his 30+ years volunteering for Muscular Dystrophy UK

Phil Grant has passionately supported Muscular Dystrophy UK since his son Christopher was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 1990.

Although Christopher died four years ago, Phil continues volunteering in his memory. He explains, “When my son was diagnosed, it shocked us, but the charity provided much-needed support. We were fortunate to share 34 wonderful years with Christopher. He taught us patience and showed a great attitude—‘deal with the cards you’re dealt’ and keep moving forward.”

Phil often dresses as Wonder Woman for fundraising events like the Bidwells Oxford 10k and London Marathon. In fact, this year the charity recognised his tireless efforts by awarding him Volunteer of the Year at the Muscular Dystrophy UK President’s Awards, in partnership with Airnow Technology. Gabby Logan MBE, the charity’s president, hosted the event, which honours those who make an exceptional difference in the muscle-wasting community.

Find out more about how you can volunteer with Muscular Dystrophy UK here. You can read more about Phil’s story here. The free Muscular Dystrophy UK helpline, 0800 652 6352, runs 10am-2pm, Monday to Thursday.

To learn more about your area, click here.

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Sobell House: Tie a Ribbon, Share the Love

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Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons at Oxford’s University Parks invites you to celebrate great people in full colour, including Zach Lewis’s beloved dad Mickey

Join the Rainbow of Ribbons to Brighten Lives

Once again, the hospice team invites you to join the Rainbow of Ribbons hospice fundraiser, a heartwarming event that brings colour and joy to every person they care for. This fundraiser encourages the community to create a vibrant rainbow of ribbons, symbolising hope, remembrance, and support for Sobell House Hospice.

Remembering Mickey Lewis: A Legacy of Love

One person for whom the ribbons mean a lot is Zach Lewis. His dad, Mickey, an inspiring local footballer, manager, and coach, passed away in 2021. Zach and his wife Suzanne have shared how they keep Mickey’s legacy alive through Sobell House’s Rainbow of Ribbons.

Suzanne says: “University Parks holds so many memories for us. Mickey coached the University of Oxford Football Team, and we often met his students there. Finding Mickey’s ribbon felt magical, like everything came full circle. Each colour has meaning, and each ribbon tells a story. Therefore, the event is not just remembrance — it’s a celebration of the man and Daddy we love.”

Hospice Heroes Taking on Challenges

Nicola Duckworth is swimming the channel in August with friends Steve and Carl. They hope to finish in under 15 hours; however, they will be happy just to complete the challenge. Living in Oxfordshire means limited sea swimming, so they train in lakes and make weekend trips to the coast. You can support Nicola here: Nicola Duckworth is fundraising for Sobell House Hospice Charity.

Similarly, in April, Ele and Graham completed a 24-hour cycle challenge in their garage and raised £2.6k. Ele previously did a swim challenge last summer in memory of her brother-in-law, Justin, and returned to support more this year.

Honouring Sandra: London to Paris Bike Ride

John Hill will ride from London to Paris on 31 July with five friends. This ride is in memory of his wife Sandra, who was cared for by the hospice community team at home in 2020. John and Sandra took on this challenge with friends in 2016. Six months later, Sandra was diagnosed with cancer. Now, John and his friends ride to remember her and raise awareness.

The Ashman Family’s Fundraising Triumph

The Ashman family recently held another spinathon, raising their total to over £12k! Upcoming events include Steve’s Tenby Ironman in September and three family members running the Oxford Half Marathon. Additionally, Pete is aiming for a place in the 2026 London Marathon. Thanks to their incredible commitment, the hospice team is deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

By making a dedication, you will help Sobell create a beautiful and moving display. Please visit here. You’re welcome at the launch event on Sunday, 20th July at University Parks, Oxford. The display will remain at the Parks until the end of August.

If you wish to read more about how to help out your community, click here.

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Pluma on the pitch Spanish fundraiser

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On Sunday, 20th July, award-winning Old Amersham restaurant Pluma brings a slice of Spain to The Lee Cricket Club for Scannappeal

Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal – A Spanish Celebration at The Lee Cricket Club

Join us on Sunday, 20th July for an unforgettable afternoon at The Lee Cricket Club. The Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal is a one-day event full of food, fun, and flamenco. You’ll experience the best of Spanish culture, all while supporting a fantastic charity.

A Refreshing Welcome

Start your experience with a glass of refreshing Sangria. As you sip, the delicious paella, prepared by Pluma’s chef, Sean Beckerberg, awaits. Choose from the traditional or vegetarian options. Don’t worry if paella isn’t your thing – an equally tempting alternative will be available.

Drinks, Dessert, and More

Enjoy a curated selection of Spanish wines, beers, and soft drinks to complement your meal. Afterward, treat yourself to dessert from The Works, offering a variety of ice creams and sorbets. They’re the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.

Flamenco Fun

As you enjoy your meal, immerse yourself in the rhythms of flamenco music. The London Flamenco Group will bring passionate, live performances to the event. If you’re feeling adventurous, join in! Learn a few steps or show off your own moves. The flamenco spirit is all about having fun and being free.

A Social Experience for All

This event is for everyone, whether you’re attending with friends, family, or flying solo. You’ll have a great time meeting new people and sharing this incredible experience. With delicious food, vibrant entertainment, and the warmth of Spanish culture, the Pluma Spanish Feast for Scannappeal is the perfect way to enjoy the season.

Supporting Scanappeal

Pluma’s co-founders, Charlie Baxter and Arantxa Fuentes, are proud to support Scanappeal. “We’ve always supported this charity, and we’re excited to help raise funds and awareness. Scanappeal is an important cause, and we hope the community joins us to make a difference,” they said.

Tickets £60pp in advance, including a welcome drink, paella, dessert & entertainment, 1-6pm on 20th July at The Lee Cricket Club, HP16 9NA. To buy yours, please visit here or call 01494 734161. Scannappeal is a registered charity dedicated to transforming healthcare in Bucks by funding state-of-the-art medical equipment for NHS hospitals including Amersham, Stoke Mandeville, Wycombe and more. Scannappeal’s mission is to bring the latest technology to local hospitals, enabling earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and care closer to home for patients. Over the past 38 years, Scannappeal has raised more than £20 million, directly benefiting one in four people in the local community.

To find out more about the charity, please visit here.

To keep reading about things happening in our area, click here.

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Experience Rio’s Magic on the Road at Fleet Carnival

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Fleet becomes Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, 5th July when carnival comes to town bringing with it a touch of South America 

Celebrate Rio at Fleet Carnival

Get ready to take a colourful trip to Brazil this year at the 68th Fleet & District Carnival, themed around Rio de Janeiro! This annual celebration promises samba, vibrant costumes, and nonstop entertainment.

🎭 Join the Parade

The procession remains carnival’s highlight. This year, expect dazzling costumes inspired by Rio’s carnival spirit. Moreover, you can take part—or cheer on school groups, walking entries, and mobile floats as they compete for prizes!

🎶 Live Music and Performances

We’ll fill the day with fantastic music and performances:

  • First, enjoy Get Plucky—a ukulele ensemble with bass, cajon, and vocalists—perfect for singalongs.
  • Next, the Fleet Rock Orchestra delivers a grand, rock-orchestral big band sound.
  • Additionally, Congakeyz, The Funky Funks, and The Filthy Llamas bring the party atmosphere.
  • Meanwhile, in the arena, enjoy performances by Hart Gymnastics, Starburst Theatre Academy, and Frogmore Dance School.

🐾 Fun for Families (and Pets!)

Explore stalls, games, and more. Don’t miss the Carnival Dog Show—with classes for all dogs, just £2 per entry. You’re sure to leave with wagging tails and smiles all around!

🎗️ Supporting a Special Charity

Carnival’s Charity of the Year is Stepping Stones DS, which supports children and young people with Down syndrome, along with their families and carers. They offer many educational, social, and physical programs to help participants thrive.

🤝 A Community Tradition

For almost 70 years, Fleet & District Carnival, entirely volunteer-run, has united our community. As a result, the event delivers joy, laughter, and charitable fundraising year after year.

Come along for a dazzling celebration of music, costumes, and community—and create memories inspired by Rio’s magic.

More about the carnival and its history here

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