CancerBACUP is funded by voluntary contributions, so its fundraising activities are vital to its continuing and developing support of people affected by cancer.

Celebrities’ support is invaluable in raising the profile of the charity, both to increase awareness so people can access its information and support, and to generate income. During the year, a host of celebrities lent their support to CancerBACUP. Rock star and celebrity Ian Dury has been a great supporter of CancerBACUP, and was instrumental in the launch of the new Helpline telephone number in 1999. Sadly, he died in April 2000, but his legacy continues to support the charity in a number of ways.

A memorial concert at the Brixton Academy raised over £60,000; and a number of his friends and associates continue to provide support and fundraising effort. In CancerBACUP Awareness Week (29 May-4 June), his friend Phil Jupitus led an appeal to men to overcome their notorious reluctance to discuss subjects such as testicular cancer.

Fourteen intrepid adventurers took part in a trek to Peru in October, climbing over 12,000 feet to the peak of Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca city. Their exploits were recorded daily by direct link to CancerBACUP's website – and each of them raised at least £2,500 to support the charity's efforts. In total, they raised enough money to provide information and support for over 3,000 people affected by cancer.

Many other events were held during the year, including the CancerBACUP Bacchus Ball, dog racing at Walthamstow, Christmas Shopping at Hamleys, Crabtree and Evelyn shopping evenings and the annual City Quiz with Peter Snow as quizmaster.