A-Plan Insurance in Thatcham pretty in pink for Breast Cancer Now

Windows went pink and wigs came on last week as insurance company A-Plan raised money for Breast Cancer Now.

Anyone passing by A-Plan in Chapel Street in the past week would have noticed its windows were pink and featured mysterious QR codes.

The codes were there to be scanned on mobile devices for an easy and fun way to donate to breast cancer support and research.

Selfie stations were set up at Thatcham’s Friday market, where customers and traders had the chance to join in the dress-up fun and take pictures together.

There was community spirit all round, as Thatcham mayor John Boyd pinked up in a fluffy scarf and funky glasses.

Last year staff at the Thatcham branch alone raised £346 just from wearing pink while working from home, but this year was a nationwide effort from A-plan as they teamed up to join the fight against cancer.

Staff across the country wore pink, sold cakes and raised money for the charity, something that was pushed forward by business development manager at A-Plan Thatcham Carlie Norwell.

She said: “It was really good, I love Thatcham. The mayor was keen to come down too.

“The mayor was such a good sport and the market traders went straight in.

“I had a pink wig on I dressed all in pink - lots of kids were staring at me.

“A few people that didn’t want to take part still wanted to donate.”

She said that some staff members across the various branches felt strongly about the cause, as they have family members who currently have breast cancer.

"Cancer has had an impact on all of our lives, if it hasn't directly impacted someone, they probably have friends of family who have had it."

It was also a chance for colleagues to enjoy time together after a year of restrictions and working from home.

Miss Norwell added: "With lockdown, there are staff members that I have never met, it has been so hard, when we first came back we had a one way system in the office.

"It's nice to be able to do something and get everyone involved."

Some branches covered their windows in balloons, others put pink fairylights on the walls and some even teamed up with local businesses to raise further awareness.

"One branch teamed up with a local coffee shop and whoever used one of our A-plan re-usable mugs could get a free coffee."

The market day cash donations raised £137 and most donations were made on their Just Giving page.

The various branches have been adding their funds in and are yet to announce a total raised amount.