A busman’s holiday with heart: Will Thomson’s journey from Margate to Liverpool for hospice awareness
For many, Margate beach holds fond childhood memories – and for Will Thomson, it’s now the starting point of a heartfelt mission to raise awareness for hospice care across the country.
Will embarking on his bus journey from Margate
Will Thomson, 57, a retired entrepreneur originally from Glasgow and now living in Liverpool, is embarking on a bus-only journey from Margate to Woodlands Hospice in Liverpool – a symbolic and personal adventure using only a bus pass, a few essentials, and a hospice collection bucket.
Will sets off on Thursday 31 July, the date of what would have been Will’s father’s birthday, aiming to arrive at Woodlands on Friday 1 August. The route will be taken entirely by public transport, travelling from stop to stop with regular services and a strong message: Hospice care matters.
Hospices are deeply meaningful to Will. His father-in-law was cared for at Woodlands Hospice, Liverpool, where he spent his final days with dignity and comfort following a prostate cancer diagnosis. Will’s own father, Willie Thomson, was cared for at Pilgrims Hospice in Margate in 2020, after being transferred from QEQM Hospital during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. He died of a respiratory condition just before the country went into lockdown.
“My dad was given incredible care,”Will said.
“The staff at Pilgrims were there not just for him, but for us too. It’s something I’ll never forget. I love the place, Planet Thanet!”
His journey isn’t about raising large amounts of money – though he’ll be carrying Pilgrims Hospices collection buckets – but more about raising awareness. “There are still so many people who don’t understand that hospices are charities,” Will said. “They’re not part of the NHS. If you’ve never had to use one, you might not know what they do – but when you need them, they’re everything.”
Hospice care is a cause that’s become part of Will’s story. Though he spent most of his career running businesses and working with not-for-profit organisations, it’s his family’s connection to buses and coaches that inspired the journey’s mode of travel.
Will’s father, a Glaswegian who moved his heart and soul to Thanet, worked for many years as a driver for Wallace Arnold coaches, and before that for Glasgow Bus Corporation. “We’ve always said we have diesel in our blood,” Will smiles. “This journey felt like a natural way to honor him and support a cause we care about.”
While planning the route and making local visits before setting off, Will experienced a moving moment in a Margate pub. “Two guys I was chatting to just handed me £10 for the collection bucket,” he said. “That really touched me – it restored my faith in people. It’s those little gestures that mean so much.”
Will at the Margate hospice
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager for Pilgrims Hospices, praised Will’s efforts:
“Will is an absolute star. His journey is a powerful way to raise awareness for hospice care, and we’re so grateful he’s carrying the Pilgrims name with him. With a bus pass, a big heart, and a bucket, we wish him the safest and happiest of travels.”
Though his daughter was disappointed to miss the trip – having been double-booked for a family holiday – Will remains upbeat and focused. He’ll also be visiting family in Margate before the first leg of his route, and says he’s braced for the inevitable: “Let’s be honest, I’m going to end up with a numb bum!”
So if you spot Will on your local bus, give him a wave – or even drop a coin in the bucket. Because he’s not just taking a journey; he’s carrying a message of care, dignity, and compassion, and a big smile that deserves a seat on every route across the UK. Please support him every step of the way.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
30th July 2025
Pilgrims Hospices Summer Fair raises £17,000 at Sandyacres
Hundreds gathered for Pilgrims Hospices’ annual Summer Fair on Sunday 27 July at Sandyacres Sports and Social Club, raising more than £17,000 for local hospice care – all in spite of a heavy afternoon downpour.
Visitors enjoyed a fun-filled day of stalls, music, and tasty treats. There was something for everyone, from puzzles and crafts to children’s toys and gifts. Live music performances by Jo Nicoll and Radio Ashford’s Sam Griffin and Webbo brought wonderful energy to the event.
Delicious cream teas and cakes were served at the refreshment stall, while the BBQ proved a popular choice for hungry visitors. Faversham Ices kindly sold ice creams, with all stock donated by Consort, meaning 100% of the sales went directly to Pilgrims. Special thanks go to Richard Deveson, who generously gave his time and van to help make it all possible.
Local businesses rallied behind the cause, donating prizes for the grand draw and tombolas, supporting a wide variety of stalls, and helping make the day such a success. We’re also grateful to our media partners for their continued support.
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Louise Newman, Pilgrims’ Community Fundraising Manager for Ashford, said:
We’re so very grateful to everyone who came along to support our Summer Fair, and to the amazing volunteers who helped make it all happen. Whether donating items, giving their time, or lending a hand on the day, our community’s kindness helps us provide vital care to patients and their families.
Over 90 volunteers contributed before, during, and after the event – their time, energy, and dedication are truly invaluable.
Special thanks go to AnnMarie Fuggle and the team at Sandyacres Sports and Social Club for donating the venue and supporting the fair from start to finish.
From one community to another – thank you.
Your generosity ensures that families facing life-limiting illness continue to receive the care, compassion, and dignity they deserve.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
18th July 2025
Ready, set… glow! Pilgrims Hospices Colour Run returns to Thanet for another spectacular splash of colour!
It’s time to dig out your white t-shirts, dust off your tutus, and gather your friends and family – Pilgrims Hospices’ Colour Run is back on Sunday 5 October 2025 at Palm Bay Green, Cliftonville, and it’s set to be brighter, bolder, and more brilliant than ever!
Now in its 9th year, this riot of colour has become a much-loved fixture on the Pilgrims calendar, raising thousands of pounds to help people across east Kent who are living with incurable illness.
Whether you walk, run, dance or hop your way around the 5k route, you’ll be showered in clouds of colourful powder paint – with guaranteed smiles from start to finish! Early Bird entry is now open, so sign up today and save while helping your local hospice continue to provide expert, compassionate care.
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Among the excited faces ready to go again this year is Annie Pritchard, a familiar face in the Pilgrims fundraising team. Annie, who works alongside Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager, has been a proud Colour Run fan since day one, and has taken part in every event so far – that’s nine bursts of brilliant colour and community spirit in Thanet!
Annie at Thanet 5k Colour Run
Annie and her husband Reg, one of Pilgrims’ fantastic volunteers, are also part of the magic behind the scenes – as members of the colour station team, they’re the ones responsible for dousing participants in clouds of vibrant, joyful paint along the route.
“I just love it,” said Annie, laughing. “You arrive clean, you leave looking like a rainbow – what’s not to love? It’s the happiest 5k you’ll ever do! There’s music, laughter, and colour EVERYWHERE… and all for an incredible cause. Being at the colour station is the best part – seeing everyone’s faces as they get showered in colour is just brilliant!”
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims’ Community Fundraising Manager, added:
“Colour Run is such a fun and feel-good event – it really brings our community together. Whether you’re taking part for the first time or returning for your ninth year, there’s something magical about being part of it. We’re so grateful to everyone who signs up, fundraises, and joins in the fun – every step and splash of colour helps us continue caring for local people who need us most.”
Reg at Thanet 5k Colour Run
The Colour Run has helped raise vital funds over the years for Pilgrims Hospices, supporting people across Thanet, Canterbury and Ashford. Every ticket helps Pilgrims continue to offer care and comfort at some of life’s most difficult times.
So – are you in?
Early Bird entry is available until 11 August 2025, so sign up now and get ready to run, walk, wiggle, and giggle your way through clouds of colour in support of local hospice care.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 2,500 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
Re-opening on Friday 25 July, the Pilgrims Hospices shop at 4 Castle Street becomes a collector’s dream, filled with pre-loved treasures for music lovers, media buffs, and homeware fans – don’t miss it!
Calling all vinyl collectors, bookworms, film fanatics, and retro décor lovers — Pilgrims Hospices is transforming its Castle Street shop in Ashford into a vibrant new space bursting with culture, character, and collectable charm.
Following the huge success of media sales, the shop at 4 Castle Street, Ashford TN23 1JQ is being completely reimagined as a specialist hub for pre-loved media and vintage finds, now with the fabulous addition of a dedicated homeware department!
What’s in store?
Crates of classic vinyl records, CDs, and DVDs
Brilliant books for every taste
Cool musical instruments waiting to be played
A unique homeware section full of retro style and practical pieces
As part of this makeover, the shop will no longer stock clothing – allowing the team to focus entirely on creating a truly special space for media lovers and homeware hunters alike.
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Love the planet? Love pre-loved!
Shopping at Pilgrims isn’t just good for your wallet – it’s good for the environment, too. Choosing second-hand over new helps reduce waste, supports recycling, and encourages more sustainable living.
Make the most of your visit to Ashford
Why not make a day of it? All three Pilgrims shops in Ashford are within easy reach of each other, making it simple to browse for bargains, unique finds and furniture in one trip:
“We’ve created something a bit different for Ashford – a space that feels more like a boutique record and bookshop, with vintage home touches and lots of heart. And the best bit? Every single item you buy helps Pilgrims Hospices care for local people facing life-limiting illness,” said Sarah Lamberton, Pilgrims Retail Area Manager.
Whether you’re styling your home, growing your vinyl collection, or just love a good rummage, our Castle Street shop is the perfect place to start. Support your local hospice, shop pre-loved, and grab something unique while you’re at it.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 2,500 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
14th July 2025
Handmade jewellery honours much-loved wife and helps raise thousands for Pilgrims Hospices
A touching story of love, loss and generosity unfolded at this year’s 100 Pieces of Art charity auction in Margate, as a local family honoured the memory of a beloved wife and mother by donating handmade jewellery – helping to raise over £9,500 for Pilgrims Hospices.
Mark Boland, whose wife Maureen was cared for by Pilgrims at the Canterbury hospice, attended the event with his daughter Sharon to see two bespoke sets of silver earrings and necklaces auctioned in Maureen’s memory.
The jewellery was designed and created by Mark’s niece, Diana King, a professional jeweller based in Perth, Scotland.
Inspired by the Pilgrims Hospices logo, the pieces were lovingly crafted in sterling silver. They served not only as striking works of art but also as deeply personal tributes to a woman described as “a wonderful wife, mum, nan, sister and aunt.”
“Mum had a huge collection of earrings – she loved them and had a pair for every occasion,” said Sharon. “Creating jewellery in her memory just felt like the perfect way to raise funds for the place that cared for her so kindly in her final days.”
Maureen passed away in November 2024, just a month short of what would have been her 60th wedding anniversary with Mark.
During her final days, she received specialist care at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury, where the family found both comfort and support.
“We were welcomed with open arms at the hospice,” Sharon said. “The team – from volunteers to nurses and doctors – were amazing. Everyone had a role to play in making Mum’s last week pain-free and peaceful.”
Even though it was during the winter months, Sharon recalled how Maureen loved to look out on the hospice gardens.
“It helped us all to share calm moments together in a horrendous situation. We’re incredibly grateful to Pilgrims.”
The idea for the jewellery came from Sharon’s dad, who noticed the potential for the Pilgrims logo to be reimagined as elegant designs. He shared the concept with his niece Diana, who quickly embraced the project.
“As soon as my Uncle Mark sent me the idea, I wanted to do it,” said Diana King, who runs Diana King Jewellery Workshop.
“Pilgrims cared for my aunt Maureen and supported my uncle and cousins so wonderfully. It meant a lot to be able to contribute to such an important cause.”
“My Auntie was a beautiful person – so kind and caring. It’s still so hard to believe she’s no longer with us. I wanted to give back on behalf of our family in a small way. When my Uncle Mark asked me to help out, my first thought was to represent the hospice and reflect their care and compassion.”
Diana’s contribution became part of 100 Pieces of Art, Pilgrims Hospices’ creative fundraising event, held at the Anthony Giles Studio in Margate. The event brought together artists, art lovers and supporters from across the county to raise vital funds for hospice care in east Kent.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices Community Fundraising Manager, said:
“We were incredibly touched by the generosity of the Boland family and the beauty of Diana’s jewellery. It was clear how much love had gone into the design, and how much it meant to the family.
“This story moved everyone attending, and the pieces helped us raise additional funds to support more families in need of end-of-life care.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate care and support for over 2,500 people living with a terminal illness each year across east Kent. Events like 100 Pieces of Art are crucial in helping to fund these services.
“We’re so thankful to Mark, Sharon, Diana, and everyone who contributed to this year’s auction,” added Karen. “Their generosity is helping us to continue delivering comfort and dignity to those who need it most.”
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 2,500 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
Pop-up style meets purpose – Brand New With Tags sale is back at Tivoli, Margate
Following the roaring success of our first pop-up, this next-level event promises fab fashion finds – all brand new, tagged, and waiting to be snapped up.
From high street faves to designer delights, you’ll discover wardrobe gems at bargain prices, with 100% of proceeds supporting Pilgrims’ expert end-of-life care across Thanet, Ashford, Canterbury and the surrounding communities.
Tivoli Warehouse is usually home to our fantastic range of furniture and household items, so this pop-up clothing event is a fun and fashionable addition to the space – and a brilliant chance to pick up some super bargains!
Jenny Byrne, Retail Area Manager, says:
“Our customers loved the last pop-up, so we couldn’t wait to bring it back – with even more style and sparkle! It’s a fantastic way to raise vital funds for hospice care and give people something fabulous to wear too.”
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Thanks to your support, Pilgrims’ shops raised over £5 million last year, helping to fund care for more than 2,500 patients and families living with a life-limiting illness.
Every top, dress, and pair of trousers you buy helps us continue providing compassionate care, free of charge, wherever it’s needed most.
So grab your mates, your shopping bags and your sass – we’ll see you at Tivoli!
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 2,500 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
