Members of Merched y Wawr, a Welsh-language women’s group, raised the funds over six months through a series of community activities and events across Wales, including one held at the Vale Hotel in Hensol.
The total of £39,847.29 was raised for Cancer Research Wales, the nominated charity for the organisation’s 2025–2027 President’s Project.
Tegwen Morris, national director of Merched y Wawr, said: “The kindness and creativity of members of Merched y Wawr is always a source of pride, and this time we are especially grateful to everyone who has participated in the knitting and crochet project – from creating over 40 metres of pink bunting to making creative creations that will be displayed at the Royal Welsh Show.
“Thanks also to everyone who has sold scarves and jewellery and organised all kinds of fun and interesting events and activities to raise money so far.”
The project was announced by president Bethan Picton-Davies during Merched y Wawr’s annual residential weekend at the Vale Hotel in Hensol in September 2025.
Ms Picton-Davies, aunt of broadcaster and Cancer Research Wales ambassador Mari Grug, said her family’s experiences with cancer influenced her decision to choose the charity.
She said: “My vision is not only to raise money, but also hope — by supporting the essential work of Cancer Research Wales to create a future where more lives are saved and fewer families have to face the devastating impact of cancer.”
The funds will support breast cancer and women’s health research.
This focus inspired the ‘Pink Positivity’ theme, which has shaped the organisation’s fundraising activities.
One highlight was the unveiling of two pink dresses made from more than 2,000 flowers at the 2026 Summer Festival in Machynlleth.
The dresses, crafted by Rhian Jones and her daughter Mair from Aberystwyth, were later displayed at Bro Hyddgen School and will be modelled at this summer’s Royal Welsh Show.
Adam Fletcher, chief executive officer of Cancer Research Wales, said the partnership was a “landmark moment” for the charity.
Mr Fletcher said: “I am very grateful to Bethan and Merched y Wawr for their support through the President’s Project – ‘Pink Positivity’, and without doubt, this partnership is a landmark moment in our history as the Welsh cancer research charity.
“With us celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2026 and Merched y Wawr celebrating their 60th anniversary in 2027, we are creating a strong partnership that will work for the benefit of people living with cancer, their families and loved ones across Wales.”
