2 weeks Ago
The amount raised at a ladies lunch in Bolton was simply music to the ears of Debbie Dowie and her team at Boot out Breast Cancer. For the spirit of Motown lit up Rivington Hall Barn as the charity hosted its annual Ladies’ Lunch. With more than 240 guests in attendance, the event was a celebration of soul, community, and purpose, raising an outstanding £11,000 to support Bolton NHS Breast Unit .
Every penny raised will go towards funding vital equipment for the unit. Guests enjoyed a sparkling Champagne reception whilst they browsed all the stalls for delights including jewellery, candles, clothing, and beauty products from local businesses. READ MORE: Debbie Dowie leads the way with breast cancer support for women during and after treatment Footballer's wife Debbie Dowie talks about her "lucky" experience with cancer The night the spectacular Moulin Rouge came to Manchester to support a Bolton cause A delicious three-course meal was served, and the tombola was a huge success - selling out within the first hour.
The afternoon’s centrepiece was a dazzling performance by the sensational vocalist Emelina James. Her lively Motown set, and Tina Turner tribute had the entire room on their feet, bringing an unforgettable energy to the occasion. Bolton Mayor Andy Morgan and Mayoress Karen Holdsworth were among those in attendance at the sparkling event.
(Image: Linda Mulvey) Bolton Mayor Andy Morgan and Mayoress Karen Holdsworth were among those in attendance. Founder and Chair of Boot Out Breast Cancer Debbie Dowie, who founded the charity after undergoing treatment for breast cancer, said: “I am truly overwhelmed by the incredible generosity, energy, and support shown at our Ladies’ Lunch this year. “From the amazing Emelina and our inspiring speakers to the businesses and individuals who donated prizes, every single person played a vital role in making this event such a success.
“Together, we’ve raised an astonishing £11,000, which will go directly towards providing life-saving equipment for the Bolton NHS Breast Unit. On behalf of Boot Out Breast Cancer, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us, supported us, and shared in our mission to make a real difference." Also among the guests was Dr Ricardo Pardo-Garcia, Consultant Breast Radiologist at the Royal Bolton Hospital, who delivered an inspiring speech on the life-saving importance of early diagnosis and the critical need for advanced diagnostic tools.
Dr. Ricardo Pardo-Garcia also spoke at the event. (Image: Linda Mulvey) His words underscored the direct impact of the funds raised on enhancing local NHS services.
A special moment of gratitude was given to Rebecca Morey, a sponsored artist with the TATA Foundation. Rebecca, who provides free 3D areola and nipple tattoos to breast cancer and BRCA survivors, generously offered to gift this service to one or two clients following the event along with a permanent makeup voucher The event attracted a grand total of 240 guests. (Image: Linda Mulvey) Her work restores confidence and dignity to those who have undergone breast surgery, making her contribution deeply meaningful.
What’s Next for Boot Out Breast Cancer? The charity is now gearing up for its next fundraisers; Festival enthusiasts can mark their calendars for “Nestival 2025”, a three-day celebration of live music, street food, and gin. The event will be hosted at Lancashire’s Cuckoo Gin from August 1–3, 2025. Weekend passes and day tickets are available now at brindledistillery.
co.uk. Save the Date for November 7th, 2025 where another Ladies Lunch will be hosted at Rivington Hall Barn, Bolton.
Full details to be released on the bootoutbreastcancer.org.uk website.
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