THE bosses of a Colchester charity say they need urgent help as donations “don’t come in as quite as fast as we need.”
Nikki Bowdidge, 58, and Richard Bowdidge, 57, are the founders of the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation.
It was set up in memory of their son who died in 2013 after a battle with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour and extensive peritoneal disease.
The goal of the foundation is to support people aged 13 to 24 and their families by providing practical, emotional and physical support whilst also funding research into the disease.
Family – Nikki, Tom, Emma, and Richard Bowdidge The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation also provides financial support to those battling cancer and their families.
Mr and Mrs Bowdidge have now spoken to The Gazette about the support they need so the charity can continue to help others.
Nikki said: “We have just been inundated with requests for help, basic travel costs, clothing costs.
“I just need more support out there, if people work for companies that want to support the charity or want to take on challenges for us.
Couple – Richard and Nikki Bowdidge (Image: Nikki Bowdidge) “Our need for money has never been greater.
“It is tough times for everyone, with tough times the donations don’t come in as quite as fast as we need.”
In 2023, the charity celebrated raising £1.6million thanks to their supporters as it celebrated its tenth anniversary.
That same year, the charity’s patron and famous ex-football manager Harry Redknapp took part in a glitzy gala which raised nearly £12,000.
Mr and Mrs Bowdidge were even made MBEs in the New Years Honours list for 2025 which they dedicated to Tom and all the donors and the supporters of the charity.
Event – Harry Redknapp with members of the Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation and sports marketing agency Synonymous (Image: Synonymous) To help generate funds, the charity has a host of events set up such as The Feather Ball, in Braxted Park, Witham, on March 1.
There’s also a half marathon run around the grounds of Hampton Court Palace on March 23, the Colchester Zoo Stampede 10k on May 18, and more across 2025.
Nikki said: “We have lots of challenges, so just keep eyes peeled as to what is going on.
“In 2024, we reached a record amount of people we’ve been able to help.”
“2025 is a year of growth, the need is ever greater.
Richard added: “Our work is life changing and lifesaving.”
