Pilgrims Vintage Tea and Fair is a scorcher
Westgate Gardens in Canterbury filled with 100s of locals and visitors from across east Kent on Saturday afternoon for the annual Pilgrims Hospices Vintage Tea and Fair. The temperature soared into the high 20s as cream teas and ice creams were purchased in aid of the charity that supports end of life care in local towns and villages. The event is set to match the £5,500 figure raised last year.
While some enjoyed jazz music from The Ruby Sisterz and close up magic from Stuart Weller on the patio with tea and cake, others took part in the traditional games and purchased treasures from stalls that were set out across the gardens.
Stuart said: “I support Pilgrims Hospices charity because of the free care they offer people who suffer illnesses that limit their life, along with the support they give to their families as well. It’s such a great charity.”
Pilgrims Hospices retail team provided a wonderful array of pre-loved clothing, hats, and accessories for visitors to purchase. Tim Stewart, Pilgrims Retail Manager, said: “We brought along a variety of stock from our many shops, including lots of lovely vintage items in keeping with the day. The sales on the day generated around £750, all helping to pay for the vital care of hospice patients and their families.”
This year the event saw many new attractions alongside the regular array of traditional jams and chutneys and homemade cakes, luxury craft stalls and fabulous raffle prizes.
Leila Ilkhan, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager for Canterbury, said: “The temperatures have been record-breaking and we really thank our amazing volunteers for all the support they gave on the day with setting up the stalls, tables and chairs, servicing refreshments, running stalls and so much more.
“We wouldn’t be able to run this lovely event without their support, and of course the support of our wonderful corporate sponsors’ whose help allow us to allocate every £1 raised on the day to hospice care on our wards, within the community and in patients’ homes.
Staff and volunteers dressed in 30s, 40s and 50s styles and were entertained by a variety of singers, musicians and dancers at this vintage-themed event.
You can find out more about Pilgrims events at pilgrimshospices.org/events and information on how to volunteer at pilgrimshospices.org/volunteer, or email leila.ilkhan@pilgrimshospices or call 01227 812 621; Leila will be delighted to hear from you.
