Tributes as Oxfordshire cancer campaigner’s death announced

Organisations and individuals across Witney and beyond have expressed their sadness at the death of Jeanne Chattoe, the founder of Witney in Pink day.

The annual event has raised more than £300,000 over the past 25 years for Abingdon-based charity Against Breast Cancer and sees the town turned pink with biodegradable pink balloons, a pink car parade and pink-themed shop windows.

READ MORE: Witney transformed into parade of pink for charity day

After the 25th event last year, Ms Chattoe announced she was stepping down as chair of the organising committee and was named as honorary president .

Against Breast Cancer – Witney Action Group said on social media yesterday (Monday, May 11): “There’s deep sadness tonight for Jeanne’s loyal Witney in Pink team, but determination to keep her vision alive by taking this amazing community fundraiser for Against Breast Cancer forwards in her memory.

Witney in Pink Day founder Jeanne Chattoe with Alan and Gerald, of Clarkson’s Farm (Image: Rachel Lane)

“Our thoughts are with Mark and all of Jeanne’s family at this sad time.”

Others also paid tribute on social media.

A spokesperson for Witney-based The Shake & Sweet Shop said: “We share with you the very sad news of Jeanne Chattoe’s passing.

“We join, with Against Breast Cancer – Witney Action Group and our whole community in sending our love and heartfelt condolences to Jeanne’s family.

“Jeanne was the founder, and inspiration behind Witney in Pink, fundraising, in memory of her own sister and so many more, raising awareness and helping research to find a cure.

Pink Day team, from left Sandy Bradshaw, Sue Mulliss, Laura Hounam, Denise Barkley, Jeanne Chattoe (Image: Supplied)

“We feel extremely lucky that we were able to be part of this wonderful lady’s story.”

Councillor Ruth Smith, the leader of Witney Town Council, said: “Such a loss. She started something amazing in the town that will live on.”

This year Witney in Pink will be held on Saturday, September 26 and only a month ago Ms Chattoe said: “Witney loves Pink Day.

“It always creates a big, uplifting buzz in the town centre with its pink balloons and decorated shop windows, fabulous street entertainment, stalls and car parade.

Witney in Pink Day 2025 was celebrated by hundreds across the town (Image: Against Breast Cancer – Witney Action Group)

“I’ve loved being at the helm for the past 25 years, but it’s the right time for me to stand down and I know Pink Day is in brilliant hands.”

READ MORE: Witney in Pink founder stepping down after 25 years

Mrs Chattoe’s fundraising efforts began after her younger sister, Delia Winkler, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1982 aged 30.

Unfortunately, the cancer returned seven years later and she sadly passed away aged 41.

Mrs Chattoe described feeling ‘helpless’ and turned to supporting research as a way to make a difference.

In 2023 she was named in the King’s Birthday Honours and presented with the British Empire Medal for her fundraising achievements.