06 Aug The countdown is on – The Baton of Hope, coming to Torbay soon…

Bristol 2023

The signature Baton of Hope, which will be relay-walked across Torbay by 100 baton bearers

The countdown is on for the Baton of Hope’s arrival in Torbay.

The UK’s largest suicide prevention initiative will see Torbay host the baton walking relay on Tuesday, 30 September.

The baton route will go through Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, and thousands are expected to attend during the day, cheering on family and friends chosen to carry the baton. Baton bearers are local people who have been impacted by suicide.

The baton will also travel by Dartmouth Steam Railway, motorbike convoy, supercar and RNLI Lifeboat.

Free events, activities and spectator locations along the route will ensure that residents and visitors can join in the fun and cheer our baton bearers on!

It will culminate in a finale fundraising event – The BIG Show of Hope – at the Riviera International Centre. All profits will go towards the Torbay Suicide Prevention Legacy Grant Pot, which will support local community and voluntary sector initiatives in the future.

X Factor singer Luke Friend, comedian Hal Cruttenden and variety artist Ada Campe are booked to attend alongside prominent suicide prevention speakers.

To book tickets, visit: www.torbaybatonofhope.com/events-1/the-big-show-of-hope

The provisional programme of activities and events (subject to change):

• Start of relay: Princess Gardens, 7:30am
• Park yoga: Princess Gardens, 8:30am
• Torquay Hope Hub (viewing screen for relay, entertainment, activities, refreshments and wellbeing stalls): Princess Gardens, 10am – 6:30pm
• Young person’s wellbeing event: South Devon College, 10am – 2pm
• Park yoga: Paignton Green, 12:30pm
• Children and family takeover at Torquay Hope Hub (with Tonic Creatives and Sound Communities): 4pm – 6:30pm
• Park yoga: Berry Head, Brixham, 4pm
• Brixham Hope Hub (music, art activities): Old Fish Market, 4pm – 6pm
• Finale fundraiser – The BIG Show of Hope (16 years+): RIC, 7 – 10.30pm

For the latest Baton of Hope information and updates, visit our website and Facebook page:

Website: www.torbaybatonofhope.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BatonOfHopeTorbay/

Article written by guest author Rachel Brett, Public Health Specialist for Torbay Council