Second Milton Keynes Ladies' Table Tennis Charity Tournament Raises £650 for Breast Cancer Now

On 6 September, Milton Keynes Table Tennis Centre held its second annual ladies' charity table tennis tournament. Although only 14 women entered, the atmosphere was no less meaningful. By the end, organisers announced that £650 had been raised for Breast Cancer Now. More than 100 old bras were also collected and sent for recycling to spread the message of breast cancer awareness. The event was organised by Julie Snowdon, a Table Tennis England staff member and secretary of the centre. Most of the participants came from the centre's monthly ladies-only sessions. This shows the tournament grew naturally from the community rather than being built around competitive ambitions. The format featured two group rounds leading to a main final and a consolation final. Organisers put the emphasis on fun and fair play, which fits a community event. There were no rankings and no ranking points. These women picked up their rackets for a social cause, not for professional metrics. From the perspective of someone who follows recreational table tennis, this kind of event is easy to overlook, yet it is crucial for keeping players involved. Looking only at 14 participants, one might dismiss this as a small event. But the real value lies in holding the tournament for a second year and drawing on regular ladies' sessions. A successful amateur event does not need to grow bigger; it needs to give women a reason to return to the practice hall. Milton Keynes did that by combining charity with sport. By bringing in around 100 old bras, participants helped the charity raise awareness about breast cancer. Organisers said donations are still being accepted through Julie Snowdon's Just Giving page. The next ladies' session will take place from 10am to 12pm on 1 November at the centre. It is a chance for local women who enjoy table tennis to play and connect with a community spreading human values.