Beatson Ambassadog to make final appearance at charity walk

Baxter, who has spent the past year raising awareness for the Beatson Cancer Charity, will complete his duties with one last appearance at the charity’s annual 10k walk, Off the Beatson Track, on August 30.

As the face of the charity’s 2025/26 Ambassadog campaign, Baxter, from Paisley, helped promote Beatson’s work supporting people and families affected by cancer.

Beatson Cancer Charity’s much-loved Ambassadog, Baxter, will join his family at this year’s Off the Beatson Track (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity)

Baxter and his owners Natalie and Ross have a close personal connection to the charity, with both Natalie’s father and Ross’s mother having received treatment at The Beatson.

Ross also underwent treatment for testicular cancer, with Baxter offering comfort throughout his recovery.

Natalie Bytheway, Baxter’s owner, said: “It has been such a privilege for Baxter to spend the past year as a Beatson Ambassadog.

“His journey began after Ross was diagnosed with cancer twice in 2024.

“During what was an incredibly difficult period for our family, Baxter was a constant source of comfort and happiness.

“He had a special way of making the hardships that come with cancer just that little bit easier.

“We decided to enter Baxter into the Ambassadog competition as a way of giving something back to the charity that had supported us so much.

“We never imagined just how special the year ahead would be.”

Baxter was selected as the 2025/26 Ambassadog through a public vote, earning more than 43,000 votes out of more than 70,000 cast.

During his time as Ambassadog, Baxter attended a wide range of charity events, including the Santa Dash, Beatson Days at bookstores and golf clubs and other community gatherings.

Natalie said: “Baxter has loved every minute of his time as Ambassadog and has enjoyed helping to promote the incredible work of Beatson Cancer Charity at events including the Santa Dash, Beatson Days at bookstores and golf clubs and so many more.

“Most importantly, he has loved meeting people, spreading a little joy and helping raise awareness of the amazing support Beatson provides to patients and families.”

Baxter’s final appearance will be at Off the Beatson Track, a family-friendly 10k walk which takes place at the Riverside Museum.

Maisie McCormick, community fundraising manager at Beatson Cancer Charity, emphasised just how important the Off the Beatson Track event is.

She said: “Off the Beatson Track is such a special event in the Beatson calendar, and it’s incredible to think that more than 25,000 people have come together over the last 12 years to show their support.

“Every single person who takes part has their own reason for walking, whether they’re remembering someone they love, supporting a family member or celebrating a milestone.

“Seeing the West End transformed into a sea of yellow is always incredibly moving, and we can’t wait to welcome even more superstars this year and make it another unforgettable day for our Beatson community.”

The event welcomes walkers of all ages and abilities, with dogs encouraged to join in.

Beatson Cancer Charity’s much-loved Ambassadog, Baxter, will join his family at this year’s Off the Beatson Track (Image: Beatson Cancer Charity)

Natalie said: “It feels very fitting that Baxter will sign off his year as Ambassadog at Off the Beatson Track on August 30.

“He is incredibly excited to be there and would love to see as many people and their four-legged friends as possible joining him for this fantastic event.

“Off the Beatson Track is such an important part of helping Beatson Cancer Charity raise vital funds to continue supporting patients and families affected by cancer, and Baxter is very proud to be able to play his part.

“It will be the perfect way to round off a year that has meant so much to our family.

“Baxter wishes the next Ambassadog the very best and hopes they enjoy their year as much as he has.

“Although his official year is coming to an end, Baxter will always be part of the Beatson family, and we know he will continue to support the charity that means so much to us.”

To register for the walk, visit www.beatsoncancercharity.org.