Final Plans Announced for Torbay’s Baton of Hope Relay
Torbay is preparing to welcome the national Baton of Hope relay today, with a full day of activities, events, and a powerful message of support for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Final Plans Announced for Torbay’s Baton of Hope Relay
Torbay is preparing to welcome the national Baton of Hope relay today, with a full day of activities, events, and a powerful message of support for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
The Baton of Hope 2025, which began its journey in Blackpool on 1 September, aims to spark conversations around mental health and the devastating impact of suicide.
Torbay is the only South West stop on the national route, with the baton set to travel through Torquay, Paignton and Brixham in a walking relay involving 100 baton bearers—many of whom have been personally affected by suicide.
Organised locally by the Torbay Suicide Prevention Partnership, which includes Torbay Council, the day is set to unite communities across the Bay in a show of support, remembrance, and hope.
A Day of Hope Across the Bay
The relay will begin at 8am at Princess Gardens in Torquay, where the Civic Mayor will officially launch the event. The South Devon Rock Choir will give a live performance to mark the occasion.
A live screen will broadcast the full walking route at the Torquay Hope Hub, which will feature stalls, refreshments, entertainment, and activities throughout the day. A special children’s takeover is planned for the afternoon with help from Tonic Creatives and Sound Communities.
Highlights of the day include:
- Free outdoor yoga sessions at Princess Gardens, Paignton Green, and Berry Head
- The baton departing Paignton by steam train
- A spectacular lifeboat send-off as the baton leaves Brixham back to Torquay
The day will end with the BIG Show of Hope gala at the Riviera International Centre, headlined by comedian Hal Cruttenden, X-Factor finalist Luke Friend, and award-winning cabaret performer Ada Campe.
The evening promises a mix of comedy, magic, music—and most importantly—a message of hope. All proceeds from the event will go to the Torbay Suicide Prevention Legacy Fund, supporting grassroots mental health projects across the Bay.
Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and one of the baton bearers, said: