More than three hundred people lit up Bournemouth beach during the recent Twilight Walk, raising over £25,000 for breast cancer services at University Hospitals Dorset.
The event, held on 16 May, saw 360 participants walk from Bournemouth Pier in a show of support for those affected by breast cancer. It marked the largest turnout since 2019 and the highest fundraising total in ten years.
The £25,435 raised will support the hospital charity by funding equipment, resources and services not covered by standard NHS funding. These additions are aimed at improving comfort and care for breast cancer patients and their families.
Consultant breast surgeon Belinda Pearce described the evening as “incredible” and thanked everyone who supported the walk, saying the money raised would go directly towards improving services in Dorset.
Local businesses Barchester Healthcare and Prime Demolition Limited sponsored the event. Staff from five Barchester care homes in Dorset joined the walk, while Prime Demolition’s team said they were proud to back a cause that affects so many lives.
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity thanked all who took part, whether in memory of someone, for personal reasons or simply to help.
In 2024, the same event raised just under £19,000 with fewer than 300 participants.