As the sun set on Bournemouth beach, a vibrant crowd of Twilight Walk participants came together with a shared mission to raise awareness and funds for University Hospitals Dorset’s breast cancer services. Their efforts raised an astonishing £25,435.
This year’s event, held on 16 May, saw the largest turnout since 2019, with 360 people gathering at Bournemouth Pier with sparkly outfits and shining hearts. The crowd lit up the night in a powerful show of solidarity and support for everyone impacted by breast cancer in the community.
The remarkable amount raised is the highest total in a decade. This will directly enhance breast cancer services at University Hospitals Dorset. The funds will provide state-of-the-art equipment, comforting resources and supportive extras above and beyond NHS funding to support patients navigating a breast cancer diagnosis and their loved ones.
Belinda Pearce, consultant breast surgeon at University Hospitals Dorset, said: “Well, what a wonderful evening! It really was incredible to see everyone there and feel the support for such an important charity but also support for and amongst all the individuals taking part. It was palpable.
“Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. We will make sure that the money raised really makes a difference for our breast cancer patients in Dorset.”
A huge thank you goes to the 2025 Twilight Walk sponsors, Barchester Healthcare and Prime Demolition Limited, who attended the event in solidarity with breastcancer patients.
Jane Shanahan, home services advisor at Kings Park Care Home in Ferndown, said: “It was a real privilege for Barchester Healthcare to be gold sponsors of the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity Twilight Walk in May. Supporting this fantastic event meant so much to us, especially as the funds raised are going towards vital breast cancer services that make a real difference to so many lives.
“On the day, the atmosphere was full of positivity and togetherness, with teams from five of our Dorset care homes proudly joining the local community to walk in support of such an important cause. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of it.”Tony Doyle, managing director of Prime Demolition Limited, said: “Breast cancer touches so many lives, and we feel incredibly privileged to contribute to raising awareness and much-appreciated funds for the breast cancer services at University Hospitals Dorset. Our team was eager to support this event because it holds significant meaning for everyone involved, and we’re delighted to know that this impressive total will make a substantial difference.”
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity extends heartfelt thanks to every single person who took part in this year’s Twilight Walk. From those who walked in memory of a loved one, in honour of their own journey or simply to do some good, every person helped create a magical and meaningful evening.