Second Milton Keynes Ladies Charity Table Tennis Tournament Raises £650 and Collects Over 100 Bras

The second ladies charity table tennis tournament at Milton Keynes Table Tennis Centre concluded on a bright Saturday morning in early September, raising £650 for Breast Cancer Now and collecting more than 100 bras for the recycling campaign of Against Breast Cancer. Fourteen women from the local area took part, most of them regular players in the centre's monthly ladies-only practice sessions. The event was organised by Julie Snowdon, a Table Tennis England member of staff and secretary of the centre, with the aim of combining a fun and fair-play competition with fundraising and breast cancer awareness. Players were split into two round-robin groups to determine seedings, followed by a knockout main event and a consolation final. This format ensured every participant played at least three or four matches, reflecting the organisers' belief that the event should be as much about enjoyment and inclusivity as about competition. Julie Snowdon stressed that the tournament was meant to encourage women to take up the sport while also raising money for vital research and support services. She expressed delight with the turnout and the lively spirit shown throughout the morning. The idea of collecting bras for recycling proved popular alongside the financial donations. Each donated bra is either cleaned and redistributed to disadvantaged women or broken down for industrial materials, creating a sustainable fundraising loop with both social and environmental benefits. This innovative approach was praised by local attendees and helped the event extend its reach beyond table tennis circles. The tournament was the second of its kind, following a successful inaugural edition. It also served to promote the monthly ladies-only sessions that the centre runs, giving women a safe and welcoming space to exercise without the pressure of competing in male-dominated environments. Many participants noted that the Monday-to-Saturday schedule and afternoon timing made it easier for them to fit physical activity into their busy routines. Beyond the immediate results, the event reinforced the growing movement for gender equity in British table tennis. Table Tennis England has increasingly encouraged local clubs to develop inclusive programmes, and Milton Keynes has become an example of how grassroots clubs can make a meaningful social impact. With the next ladies session set for 1 November from 10 am to noon, local women are already looking forward to their next chance to pick up a paddle, meet one another, and contribute to a worthy cause.