For the third year running, our passionate team proudly took part in the Charity Shop Challenge, an inspiring initiative by Business in the Community NI in support of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. This year’s challenge officially launched in February, and from day one, our team hit the ground running with ideas, fundraising plans, and a community engagement strategy that truly brought people together.

Our chosen campaign theme for 2025 was "Paint the Town Teal"—a creative twist on the popular phrase "paint the town red"—which captured our mission to raise awareness and celebrate the incredible work done by Cancer Focus NI across our local communities. Teal, the charity's signature colour, became a symbol of solidarity and support across Newtownards. We reached out to local businesses, encouraging them to decorate their shop windows in teal and display Cancer Focus NI materials to spread the word. The response was phenomenal, with the town quickly transforming into a sea of teal in support of this vital cause.

Our fundraising efforts were as diverse as they were enthusiastic. Highlights included:

• A high-energy Spinathon, with team members cycling non-stop over 330km to raise funds and awareness.
• A warm and welcoming Virtual Coffee Morning, where colleagues and friends connected online to share stories and donations.
• Raffles and Quiz Nights that brought out the competitive spirit in our community—all in the name of charity.
• A heartwarming Toddler Toddle, led by little Rosie—whose parents and nanny are all proud members of the Hughes team—delighted participants and showcased how even the youngest supporters can make a difference.

One of our proudest achievements this year was helping to secure Cancer Focus NI as the chosen charity for the 2025 Ards Business Awards, a testament to the incredible collaborative spirit and awareness we generated within our community.

Our shop on the day was buzzing with activity. We welcomed local influencers and supporters including:

• Kirstie McMurray from Downtown Radio
• The Gourmet Boys, known for their food-focused content, impressive Mustaches and tandem bike
• Nicole Sinclair, known for her body positive, sustainable styling.

Their presence brought extra energy to the event and helped us reach new audiences through their social platforms.

On 23rd May, the town came alive as our team hosted a dynamic Spinathon and Drumathon in Conway Square, while simultaneously taking over the charity shop—styling outfits, engaging with customers, and raising vital funds with every sale.

Thanks to the hard work, creativity, and generosity of our team and wider community, we are thrilled to announce that we raised an incredible £7,601 for Cancer Focus NI!

Every penny of this goes toward the charity’s life-changing work, which includes delivering vital support services for local people affected by cancer and funding pioneering research at Queen’s University Belfast. With an annual fundraising target of £4.4 million, our contribution makes a real and lasting impact.

We are immensely proud to be part of this important initiative and deeply honoured to support a cause so close to our hearts. We're already looking forward to the Awards Lunch on 24th June, and fingers crossed we’ll be bringing some trophies home!

A huge well done to everyone who took part across Northern Ireland. Here's to continuing this amazing journey in 2026—bigger, bolder, and even more teal!