Charity, New Forest | Posted on October 3rd, 2025 | return to news

New Forest Walk raises funds in memory of teenager

A total of 50 people dressed in neon and tutus took on an 18-mile walk to raise funds for the Batten Fighters Forever charity.

If you’re going to do a charity walk, what better way than wearing neon and tutus to add fun to the event?

A total of 50 walkers were so attired for their 18-mile walk in the New Forest on 27 September. The ‘Sassy Walk’ raised £9,000 to support children with Batten Disease, a rare and sadly incurable inherited neurodegenerative condition that causes progressive loss of sight, speech, mobility, and cognitive ability in children.

The walk was inspired by Annabelle Hover, who sadly passed away last year, aged 18. Annabelle was diagnosed with the condition in childhood. Her younger brother Robbie, aged 13, has received the same devastating diagnosis, while their two other siblings tested negative.

Annabelle was determined not to let Batten Disease define her. With her parents, Andy and Lisa, they founded Batten Fighters Forever (BFF) to raise awareness, fund research, and support other families living with the condition.

Lisa Hover, co-founder of Batten Fighters Forever, said: “We were absolutely blown away by the turnout and the incredible energy everyone brought to this year’s walk. Annabelle was determined never to let Batten Disease define her – she wanted to live life to the fullest. The Sassy Walks are inspired by her fantastically sassy attitude, and it’s so special to see her spirit shining through in everyone who took part.

“Crossing the finish line together and celebrating as a community was just wonderful. To not only reach but exceed our fundraising goal is amazing, and we are so grateful to every single person who donated and supported us.”

Annabelle’s journey began with changes to her vision at just five years old. Initially diagnosed with macular degeneration, by the age of nine she was registered severely sight impaired. But further tests revealed the true cause a year later: Juvenile Batten Disease. By 13, she began experiencing seizures – sometimes well controlled, sometimes frightening and psychosis-inducing.

Throughout it all, she remained courageous and ‘sassy’, and her dream of fighting back against Batten Disease lives on through BFF and events like the Sassy Walk – with the first walk taking place last September.

The second annual Sassy Walk saw participants take on an 18-mile circular route through the New Forest for the Batten Fighters Forever charity.

The walk’s colourful crew – kitted out in sassy-inspired outfits including bright tutus and neon leg warmers – set off and finished at The Elm Tree pub in Ringwood, where celebrations continued with a BBQ, raffle, live music, and the presentation of the coveted ‘Sassiest Walker’ award.

Lisa Hover said: “Crossing the finish line together and celebrating as a community was just wonderful. To not only reach but exceed our fundraising goal is amazing, and we are so grateful to every single person who donated and supported us.”

With over £9,800 raised so far, money raised from this year’s walk will make a real difference to families affected by Batten Disease. Families can find themselves suddenly needing specialist equipment to support their children’s daily care, from mobility aids and seizure monitoring devices to home adaptations – costs that can quickly run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

Last year, funds helped provide items such as mobility aids, home adaptations, a wheelchair accessible vehicle and monitoring equipment vital for parents managing 24-hour care. This year’s total will go even further, funding practical support, family grants, and contributing towards vital research into treatments – offering hope and relief to families navigating this devastating condition.

Andy, Annabelle’s dad and co-founder, said: “Every penny donated goes directly to helping families – that’s what Batten Fighters Forever is all about, and it’s exactly what Annabelle wanted. She chose the name herself, which shortens to BFF, perfectly reflecting the close bond we share as a family and the wider community supporting us.

“Batten Disease is devastating for everyone it touches, and if we can ease even a little of that burden, it makes all the effort worthwhile. We are so grateful for every single donation and for the love and support shown by everyone taking part in the walk.”

The Batten Fighters Forever charity is already looking ahead to the next event and hopes to make the Sassy Walk bigger and bolder every year.

To find out more about Batten Fighters Forever, Annabelle’s story, or to donate, visit https://battenfightersforever.com.