Witney goes pink to help cancer research (From Witney Gazette)

Witney goes pink to help cancer research

9:00am Wednesday 11th October 2006 in Witney By Denise Barkley

WITNEY will be conspicuously in the pink on Saturday as charity supporters raise funds for breast cancer research.

The Witney fundraising team of the Harwell-based charity Against Breast Cancer (ABC) will be holding their fifth Witney in the Pink Day, and, once again, plan to turn the town into a sea of pink balloons. Last year's event raised £4,500, and organisers are hoping that they may top even that this time.

The team have been galvanising support from the town's shops and businesses by delivering pink balloons and ribbon, and asking them to put them up to show solidarity on the day. They are also invited to take part in a competition for the best pink window display, which will be judged by the town mayor, Chrissie Curry, after she opens Witney in the Pink Day at 10am outside the post office in the High Street.

"Witney in the Pink Day is now a regular event on the town calendar, and much enjoyed by the townspeople. In past years, the response has been amazing, and we are hoping that everyone will come along, have fun, and help us raise much-needed funds for ABC again this year," said Jeanne Chattoe, chairman of the Witney fundraising team.

Adding some music and entertainment to the day will be a variety of dance groups, from the Hazazz belly dancers to Masons Apron Morris team, and a group of swing dancers in the afternoon. There will be face-painting and Chris Arnell, from Bampton, has been invited along again with his very life-like dalek. Last year, Chris and his dalek collected hundreds of pounds, and delighted the children.

Once again, a Big Pink Balloon Race will take place - with a prize of £100 of Marks & Spencer vouchers, kindly donated by the Witney branch of Lloyds TSB Bank. There will also be pink helium balloons on ribbons on sale for the tiny tots.

"In past years, we have been overwhelmed by the help, support, and enthusiasm of the people, shops, and businesses of Witney," said Mrs Chattoe.

"Witney in the Pink Day certainly puts Against Breast Cancer, and the vital research it is doing, in the spotlight in the best way possible."

ABC Witney's next event, a 'ladies dinner' with after-dinner speaker TV personality Sandi Toksvig, takes place at Eynsham Hall, North Leigh, on Thursday, November 2. Tickets, £40, to include three-course meal and a glass of bubbly, are available from Mrs Chattoe, at Renaissance, Wesley Walk, Witney, phone 01993 848539, or Sue Mulliss, phone 01993 842761.