The March For March idea was created by local organiser Lisa, whose brother was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Shocked to discover that one in eight men will be affected by the disease, Lisa decided to take action. What began as a charity quiz night in a local pub quickly grew into a town-wide campaign. Inspired by the successful breast cancer awareness events organised by the women of Witney, Lisa and the team developed Witney in Blue to ensure men’s health receives the same community support — not only for cancer awareness, but also to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing.

While participants are encouraged to visit venues across the whole of March, the main day of celebration will be Saturday 7th March, when organisers hope to see Witney quite literally “turn blue”. Local businesses are being encouraged to dress their windows, venues and staff in blue to show their support.

Getting involved is simple. A £4 donation to Prostate Cancer UK provides a Witney in Blue passport. Participants can then gather friends and family and start collecting stamps by visiting the venues taking part. Passports will be available from selected participating bars and pubs, and donations can be made quickly and easily via the event’s QR code.

Witney in Blue promises to bring the community together for a great cause — raising awareness, starting conversations, and helping to save lives.

Who can get involved? While the event is centred around Witney’s pubs and bars and therefore aimed primarily at over-18s, everyone is welcome to take part in the challenge. It’s a great excuse for a day out — enjoying a walk around the town, meeting friends, starting important conversations, and perhaps even stopping for a drink or two along the way.