It’s A Knockout returns to Ramsgate

It’s amazing what Pilgrims Hospices supporters will do to raise funds for people who need care in their home towns in east Kent. On Sunday 20th May teams of friends, families and local businesses will take part in Pilgrims Hospices It’s A Knockout Challenge; pledging money and raising sponsorship to care for people with life limiting illnesses.

Regular supporters and sponsors of this fun filled event, Stagecoach South East, are hoping to see even more spectators cheering on the teams in Government Acre, Ramsgate. Joanne Howe, Stagecoach Operations Director said: “We have a long standing association with Pilgrims and we’re proud to sponsor It’s a Knockout 

once again. The event is a real favourite with our staff, it’s a great team builder and a way for them to have fun whilst raising money for the Hospice.

“This year we’re entering teams from our Thanet and Folkestone depots, look out for some dazzling fancy dress!

“Many of our staff from across the region regularly enter and support Pilgrims’ events throughout the year which we encourage by covering all entry fees.”

If you’ve ever watched Total Wipe-out or it’s A Knockout you will know how hilarious this is to watch or be part of a team. The impressive games arena at Government Acre will be packed with colourful inflatable obstacles with teams which include Stagecoach Thanet, Currys from Westwood Cross, South Eastern Trains plus family teams and many more. They will all be competing for the winner’s trophy and hoping to avoid the dreaded wooden spoons.

The Stagecoach teams have now won this event twice and also been runners-up in the massively popular local event. This year their team will be made up from staff in various departments of the Stagecoach Company who are known as the Storm Loopers. The team mascot will be Stagecoach driver Garry Warren dressed as Darth Vader. Garry said: “I’m delighted to be their mascot this year in my Star Wars costume and hope everyone will encourage our team the Storm Loopers to gain a place on the winners’ podium again this year.

“We enjoy every minute of this charity fundraising event and are pleased to be here to support Pilgrims Hospices with the vital care they offer.”

Regular Pilgrims supporter Gary has also been dedicating some time to his running event, he will be taking part in a half marathon whilst visiting family in Ireland in June this year and hopes to be raising even more money and awareness to support Pilgrims Hospices.

We enjoy every minute of this charity fundraising event and are pleased to be here to support Pilgrims Hospices with the vital care they offer.                                                          Garry

Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager said: “We are delighted to have Stagecoach competing again this year and as a sponsor of this fantastic event.

“Thank you everyone who is getting involved again this year. You’re support and commitment is just wonderful. You’re taking part in a fantastic event and helping to support care for local people. We really couldn’t do it without you, thank you once again.”

We are delighted to have Stagecoach competing again this year and as a sponsor of this fantastic event.                  Karen

Last year this fun packed event raised over £14,000 to help support hospice care. There’s still a little time if you wish to put a team together. You will need 10 team members paying £25 per person, all team members must be aged 16 or over. If you are quick you can join up now by contacting karen.kenward@pilgrimshospices.org or call 01843 233 934.

Why not bring the family along between 11.30am – 3.30pm. There will a licensed bar and catering with fun activities for everyone.


If you or someone you know is coping with a life limiting illness and you think you may benefit from Pilgrims support, talk to your GP or Healthcare Professional about the options or click Wellbeing and Social Programme to read more about our programmes.