As the daylight faded over Swaledale and a chill crept into the October evening, Reeth Community Orchard came alive with a quiet glow. The final event of this year’s PINKtober was a candle ceremony, a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate a month filled with community spirit, creativity, and compassion.
Along the orchard path, paper lanterns flickered gently in the breeze, each one hand decorated with hearts and messages of love. Among the branches, soft felt hearts made by local crafters swayed beneath the autumn leaves, their pink ribbons catching what little light remained. It was simple, beautiful, and full of meaning, a fitting close to a month that has seen the Dales unite in support of Cancer Research UK.
Music played a central part in the evening’s atmosphere. The Pearls and the Arkengarthdale Pop Up Choir performed with warmth and harmony, their voices carrying through the night air. Between songs, there was laughter, the soft rustle of coats and scarves, and a sense of shared purpose. For a moment, it felt as if the entire orchard was breathing in time with the music, a community gathered together in hope and remembrance.
Event coordinator June Ashton spoke about the remarkable series of activities that have taken place throughout October. From dog walks and yoga mornings to concerts, craft sessions, and pink themed gatherings, PINKtober in the Dales has once again shown what can be achieved when people come together with generosity and good humour. Her words were full of gratitude for the volunteers, the participants, the supporters, and everyone who helped keep the fundraising spirit alive.
The candle ceremony offered a moment to look back on all that has been achieved and to recognise those who inspire the effort, friends, families, and loved ones who have faced cancer with courage and grace. Each flickering light represented both memory and hope, a small but powerful symbol of solidarity.
As the final notes faded and the candles burned low, there was a sense of completion but also continuity. PINKtober may draw to a close for another year, but its message lingers on in moments like this, in the warmth of shared effort and the glow of hope lighting the dark.
