The national Baton of Hope 2025 has begun and excitement is gearing up for the baton’s arrival in the Bay on Tuesday 30 September.

There are exactly four weeks to go until the baton relay reaches Torbay after setting off yesterday from Blackpool.

The relay, which raises awareness of the impact of suicide, will go through Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

One hundred baton bearers – most of whom have all been impacted by suicide in some way – will take part in the walking relay.

Torbay is the only South West location for this relay event and there are lots of ways for residents to get involved.

Organisers the Torbay Suicide Prevention Partnership, of which we are a member, hope that crowds will line the streets to cheer on the baton bearers.

The relay starts at 8am at Princess Gardens, which will have a live tour screen for people to watch the full Torbay walking route.

There will be wellbeing events and activities taking place throughout the day in Paignton and Brixham too.

At the end of the day, the BIG Show of Hope gala fundraiser takes place at the Riviera International Centre featuring comedian Hal Cruttenden, Teignmouth born X-Factor finalist Luke Friend and cabaret compere Ada Campe.

The evening promises a night of comedy, magic, music and, most importantly, hope.

Each ticket bought enters you into a raffle for a chance to win top-quality prizes and all profits go to the Torbay Suicide Prevention Legacy Fund.

Buy a ticket to the BIG Show of Hope

Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, who is one of the baton bearers, said: “The Torbay Baton of Hope will be a unique opportunity for the whole of the Bay to come together to raise awareness of mental health struggles – something that can affect anyone.

“I’m honoured to be one of the 100 people carrying the baton in the relay but if you’re not carrying a baton, you can still get involved.

“The finale fundraiser event will raise much-needed funds to support grassroots activity in the Bay, vital work which will happen long after the baton relay has finished.

“Buying a ticket will ensure you’re playing your part in leaving a legacy of hope for those going through mental health crises.”

There is a whole host of activities for all ages taking place in all three towns on 30 September.

Highlights include:

• The Civic Mayor will start the relay and the first baton bearer will be sung off by the South Devon Rock Choir.
• An all-day Torquay Hope Hub will be at Princess Gardens featuring a live tour screen, stalls, activities, refreshments and entertainment. There will be a children’s take over of the hub from 4pm with activities/entertainment from Tonic Creatives and Sound Communities.
• Free outdoor yoga sessions at Princess Gardens, Paignton Green and Berry Head
• A chance to wave off the baton by steam train as it leaves Paignton for Brixham
• A chance to see the baton leave by lifeboat as it departs Brixham for its journey back to Torquay.

The Torbay Baton of Hope website has detailed timings, locations and route maps so you don’t miss anything.

For the latest updates, follow the Torbay Baton of Hope Facebook page 

Watch videos about Torbay’s baton bearers 

Buy a ticket to the BIG Show of Hope