Petersfield, Hampshire, 23rd October 2026 – The annual March for Men with Kev (MFMWK) held on Sunday 13th September, was the biggest and most successful event to date, bringing together over 400 walkers. The town was awash with blue as families, friends, and supporters came together to remember Kevan Birkett and continue his mission of raising awareness of prostate cancer and the importance of early detection.
A record-breaking fundraising achievement. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the walkers, sponsors, local businesses and the wider community, this year’s event raised a remarkable £15,700, the highest total in the event’s four-year history. The funds raised will support three charities that are particularly close to the hearts of Kev’s family and the organising team.
Prostate Cancer UK – Supporting vital research, raising awareness and providing information and support to men and their families. PCaSO – Providing invaluable local support, information and community PSA testing initiatives. The Rosemary Foundation – Hospice at Home – Providing compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families in their own homes. The charity holds a particularly special place in Kev’s family’s hearts, having provided exceptional care and support during his final days.
Kev was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer
Kev was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in December 2021 and sadly passed away in May 2023. Throughout his illness, he was determined to encourage other men to be more aware of their health, recognize potential warning signs and seek medical advice. His message “Early action saves lives” remains at the heart of the annual march. A community that continues to make a difference.
The event continues to grow, bringing together people of all ages, many walking in memory of loved ones or in support of those affected by prostate cancer. The organising team have expressed their appreciation to the local media, including Shine Radio, for their continued support in helping spread the message and raise awareness throughout the community. More than just a fund-raising event.
While the fund-raising achievement is something to celebrate, the heart of MFMWK has always been about raising awareness and encouraging conversations around men’s health. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, with more than 64,000 men diagnosed each year. The importance of recognizing potential symptoms, understanding individual risk and seeking medical advice cannot be overstated.
Continuing Kev’s Legacy
Continuing Kev’s Legacy. Speaking on behalf of the organising team, Kev’s wife, Claire Birkett, said: “Every year I am overwhelmed by the incredible support we receive from our wonderful community. To see so many people walking through Petersfield in blue, remembering Kev and helping us spread such an important message means more than I can put into words. Kev would be absolutely blown away by what this event has become.
What started as a way of remembering him has grown into something truly special, bringing people together, raising much needed funds and most importantly, encouraging men to take their health seriously. We cannot thank everyone enough – our walkers, volunteers, marshals, sponsors, local businesses and those who have donated or supported us in any way. Everyone played a part in making this year’s march so special.
If sharing Kev’s story encourages just one man to seek medical advice and potentially saves a life, then everything we do is worthwhile. Together, we are keeping Kev’s legacy alive, and we look forward to turning Petersfield blue again next year.” Looking ahead to 2027. Plans are already looking ahead to next year, to once again turning the town blue to celebrate Kev’s legacy, and to continue spreading the message that early action saves lives.
The 5th annual MFMWK will take place on Sunday 12th September, so please SAVE THE DATE! For more information visit www.marchformenwithkev.co.uk
