14 June 2019

Chloe and The Hopeless Wanderers hike for hospice care

Chloe Darling from Ashford completed the Pilgrims Way Challenge in 2018, walking 25km with friends whilst pregnant with her son, Arthur. She enjoyed the day so much that she signed up again in 2019 to raise even more vital funds for local hospice care.


At the time, Chloe was a full-time carer for her husband, Frank, and mother to Petal, Florence, Jesse and Arthur, and a keen walker and runner.

Chloe and Arthur

She said: “Last year, I decided whilst pregnant that I would complete the Pilgrims Way Challenge with two friends to assist me along the way!

“We enjoyed and loved every moment, so this year I gathered all my friends in a big team to raise money for Pilgrims.”

The team, named The Hopeless Wanderers, will walk the 55km route alongside more than 500 other hikers on Saturday 22 June 2019. They have already raised more than £800 and hope to pass the £1,000 mark by the time they pull on their walking boots for the big day.

Chloe added:

“Between us, we’ve had many friends who have been cared for at the Ashford hospice in their final days. I believe that a person’s final days with their family are the most important. The care given by Pilgrims to not only the patient but also to their family members is incredibly inspirational and admirable.”

The next Pilgrims Way Challenge takes place on Saturday 20 June 2026. With three distances to choose from, it’s perfect for people of all fitness levels.

By taking part, you’ll be helping Pilgrims Hospices to continue with the work that is so import within the east Kent community.


Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.