Falmouth turns pink as Mermaid March raises £23,000

For one afternoon, Falmouth’s usual seafront crowd gave way to something considerably brighter. Wigs, tails and glitter took over the town on Sunday as more than 1,000 people turned out in pink for a cause that touches thousands of families across Cornwall.

A sea of pink through Falmouth

The annual Pink Wig Mermaid March began with a welcoming reception before the crowd took to the streets in a wash of pink, walking in support of everyone affected by breast cancer. Celebrations carried on after the march with a silent disco, giving supporters the chance to come together, reflect on the cause and enjoy the community spirit that has made the event what it is.

Participants of all ages took part in a day built around fun, fundraising and togetherness, united by a shared commitment to supporting patients receiving care through the Mermaid Centre.

Men join the march for the first time

This year marked a first for the event. Men were invited to take part alongside the traditional pink wigs and mermaid tails, making the march more inclusive than ever and recognising the wider impact breast cancer has on families, friends and loved ones, not only those diagnosed.

Where the money goes

The march raised more than £23,000, all of which will go to Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity to help enhance services, treatment environments and support for patients and their families at the Mermaid Centre.

Karen Murrish, Fundraising Manager, said the turnout had been remarkable. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in this year’s Pink Wig Mermaid March. Seeing so many people come together in a sea of pink was incredible. Every person who took part, volunteered or donated has helped make a real difference to patients and their families.”

Karen added that welcoming men for the first time had been one of the highlights of the day. “This year was especially exciting as we welcomed men to join the march for the first time, reflecting the fact that breast cancer affects not only patients but also their loved ones and support networks.”

The charity thanked everyone who made the day possible, including participants, volunteers, sponsors, prize donators and supporters, whose generosity and enthusiasm helped make the event a success.

Booking already open for 2027

Following this year’s turnout, tickets for the 2027 Pink Wig March are now on sale, with an early-bird offer letting supporters secure their place at 2026 prices. Places can be booked through Pink Wig 2027 in aid of the Mermaid Centre.

Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity says it is already looking forward to welcoming even more pink wigs to Falmouth next year. Anyone who took part, or missed out and still wants to support the cause, can donate through the Pink Wig Mermaid March JustGiving page.