THERE was a definite rosy glow to Barnard Castle as the town turned pink in a massive show of community support for the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research UK.
More than 70 homes, businesses and organisations went all out decorating their windows for the two-week campaign to Turn Barney Pink.
It is the third year the event has been organised and it continues to go from strength to strength.
Businesses were asked for a donation of £5 and some shops put up collection boxes or information displays about cancer.
The idea to turn the town pink was originally suggested by Janet Leafe, the region’s fundraising co-ordinator, after she had seen another town “turn pink” and this year she was invited to judge the window contest.
Ms Leafe spent a full day visiting the various premises chatting to residents and business owners about the various displays and said she was overwhelmed by the numbers taking part.
As a result, it is taking a little longer to deliberate on who she will declare as the winning display.
Pam Ashmore, from the branch group, said: “It’s amazing how much everyone supports the event.
“All three primary schools have got involved, not just making a donation to dress in pink for the day, but creating displays in their schools.”
The town’s volunteer Christmas light group programmed new lights on a tree in Galgate Green to illuminate pink to match those at the Market Cross and at the Post Office, in lower Galgate.
The GSK Plant in Harmire Road have also been lit up pink overnight.
Money raised from the event will go directly to support scientists working in the north east to find new and better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
The annual Pink Day, held at Barnard Castle Cricket Club, was again well supported and the event added £3,550 to the coffers.
Pam said: “Thanks to all the people who supported by donating prizes, baking cakes, making saleable items and helping on the day and everyone who attended.”
The town’s younger generation was also keen to get involved in Turn Barney Pink, much to the delight of organisers.
Pink days have already been held at Green Lane and Montalbo primaries and youngsters from St Mary’s will join in the fun later this week.
Toddlers at Little Meadows Nursery, on Harmire, Enterprise Park, also donned pink dress and took part in a number of pink-themed activities.
