Christie Impact Report 2025

Tackling cancer head on When Chris Bamber’s wife, Sarah, was diagnosed with incurable breast cancer and became a patient at The Christie, he turned his personal grief into an incredible force for good. A long-standing figure in Manchester’s rugby community, Chris from Stalybridge used his network and passion for the sport to fundraise for The Christie Charity.

What began as a single charity match — organised with his friend Nick Ryan’s company, City Recruiter, and Greater Manchester Police — has grown into an annual event that unites players, businesses, and supporters for one cause. With £80,000 already raised, the tournament continues to build momentum each year. Chris and Sarah’s story inspired many, including employees at Tesco, where Sarah worked as a director. Moved by her courage and the exceptional care provided by The Christie, Tesco staff across the country organised bucket collections, creating a separate wave of grassroots fundraising that spread nationwide. “People have been incredibly generous and supportive — it’s honestly been overwhelming,” says Chris. “When Tesco got involved, we saw bucket collections happening everywhere, from the Scottish islands all the way down to Cornwall. It just

shows how far-reaching Sarah’s story and The Christie Charity’s impact really are.” “We were aiming to make £10K in our fundraising and we’ve made over eight times that amount so far. It means so much to know that so many people are behind us, helping to make a difference.”

RIGHT Chris Bamber

20 The Christie Charity Impact Report 2024/25