Teddy20 Story
Following the heart breaking loss of their youngest child, Ted, to a rare form of cancer, the Newton family has been actively raising awareness and funds to assist children undergoing cancer treatment and their families. Through tireless efforts, they were able to acquire Ted’s Shack caravan, after months of dedicated fundraising. This remarkable achievement has allowed hundreds of children and their families to experience respite holidays in a serene location within the beautiful south west. Ted’s Shack provides a much-needed escape from the hospital environment and the harsh realities of cancer, enabling families to create cherished memories.
As a non-profit charity, Teddy20 relies on the unwavering dedication of volunteers who work tirelessly to raise funds for children with cancer. They organize annual challenges such as skydives, cycles, and walks, as well as host hero’s parties, granting wishes, and spreading joy during the festive season with Santa and his sleigh. With a strong commitment to fighting childhood cancer, Teddy20 is making a significant impact.
In 2012, Ted’s older brother, Tom, took the initiative to organize a gig at a local pub to raise money for Teddy20. Year after year, the gig grew in popularity, eventually evolving into a two-day festival in 2018. Today, Teddy Rocks Festival has grown exponentially, accommodating up to 5,000 attendees who enjoy a weekend of camping and performances by renowned artists such as Scouting For Girls, The Amazons, Modestep, Vengaboys, and more. This extraordinary event has not only raised £500,000 to date but has also been recognized as the Best Family Festival in the UK Festival Awards and recently received the H award, presented by the Heavy Music Awards for Exceptional positive contribution to the heavy music scene.
The festival’s profits are channelled directly to Teddy20, alongside three other children’s cancer charities. The impact achieved by the Newton family and their supporters is nothing short of extraordinary. They have fostered a vibrant and compassionate community dedicated to preserving Ted’s legacy and supporting this vital cause.
Teddy20 continue to stand in the fight against cancer by organising annual events and challenges to raise awareness and funds for children with cancer.