Pilgrims Hospices’ Store50 wins Pride display award with spectacular upcycled window
A creative Pride window at Pilgrims Hospices’ Store50 has been named a joint winner of a national charity retail competition, with judges praising its style, upcycling and attention to detail.
The Canterbury shop’s eye-catching display was entered into The Charity Retail Consultancy’s Pride Display Competition 2026, where it was selected as joint winner.
One of the judges even compared the striking design to an Alexander McQueen outfit.
Watch the winners announcement by The Charity Retail Consultancy:
The alternative, punk-inspired display was created by Store50 team member Hannah Golding, who has developed and reused elements of the window over several years.
At the heart of the display are an elaborate pair of wings and harness, handmade using discarded and donated materials including rag clothing, denim and old handbags.
The wings alone took months to create, with hundreds of tiny scallop-shaped pieces individually cut and attached to create their feathered appearance.
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Hannah said: “I wanted to create more of a festival look, but something more deconstructed and abstract, so the mannequins didn’t need to be fully dressed.
“The wings and harness have become a bit of a constant in the window. I made the wings around three years ago using used cardboard and materials that would otherwise have been thrown away.”
The sustainable creativity continues throughout the display. The male mannequin wears a pom pom mohawk made from rag t-shirt yarn and blue IKEA bags, while the female mannequin wears a hoop skirt made from garden rods and covered in t-shirt yarn, alongside a corset created from donated clothing and handbags.
Many of the materials used are items that might otherwise have ended up as waste, demonstrating how creativity and imagination can give unwanted materials a completely new life.
For Hannah, the wings also have a particularly special meaning. They were the last part of the project her dad helped with before he died, making the wooden batons used to join and secure them.
She said: “The wings hold a special place for me because they were the last thing my dad helped with before he died. He made the wooden batons to join and secure the wings.”
The Pride window is just one example of the imaginative displays regularly created at Pilgrims Hospices’ Store50, where donated clothing, and other pre-loved items are given a new lease of life while raising vital funds for hospice care across east Kent.
The Charity Retail Consultancy praised the Store50 display for its “style, upcycling and attention to detail”, recognising the creativity and hard work that went into bringing the design to life.
Hannah and the Store50 team are delighted to have their work recognised.
The award highlights not only the visual impact of the display, but the values behind it, creativity, sustainability and the belief that something unwanted can be transformed into something extraordinary.
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.
2nd September 2025
Step back in time at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop – Now open Sundays!
Tucked away on historic Burgate, just off Canterbury High Street and only steps from the Cathedral gates, Pilgrims Hospices’ Vintage and Retro Shop is a treasure trove of nostalgia, style, and sustainable shopping.
Whether you’re a local, a student, or visiting from across the globe, this charming store is the perfect place to discover something truly special – and now, with extended opening hours including Sundays, there’s even more time to explore.
From 1940s tea dresses to 1980s statement jackets, quirky bric-a-brac to elegant vintage petticoats, the shop is packed with hand-picked gems. Customers range from locals seeking a nostalgic piece from their past, to college and university students creating unique, modern looks.
Manager Nigel has spotted a new favourite trend:
“Petticoats with Converse is quite the look at the moment,” he says.
“The young ladies love pairing them with a denim jacket and boots – it’s vintage meets street style!”
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The shop also attracts visitors from all over the world – cruise day-trippers looking for a British memento, cathedral tourists, and families hunting for something unique for graduation day. Many fall in love with the bric-a-brac section, filled with retro homeware and keepsakes that capture the charm of yesteryear.
It’s no surprise the store has a growing collection of glowing visitor reviews.
Tamila wrote: “Always lovely staff and great shop.”
Sasha declared it “Best shop everrr!!!” and another happy customer summed it up simply: “10/10 would come again!”
Shopping that makes a difference
Every purchase at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop helps raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, the local end-of-life care charity providing free, compassionate care across east Kent.
By choosing pre-loved, you’re not only supporting sustainable fashion – you’re also helping local people living with incurable illness.
Meet Nigel and the team
Nigel, almost 72, has worked with Pilgrims Hospices’ Retail team for more than 12 years, managing shops in Ramsgate, Chartham, and now Canterbury Vintage and Retro. His flair for the unusual and passion for sustainable fashion make him the perfect guide for anyone seeking something unique.
His motivation for joining Pilgrims was deeply personal:
“A dear friend received the most wonderful care at the Margate hospice after being diagnosed with throat cancer,” Nigel shares.
“I was unprepared for what to expect, but the care couldn’t be faulted. I decided to join Pilgrims to help make a difference – and I absolutely caught the bug. I’ve loved every minute.”
With a team of dedicated volunteers, the shop offers a warm welcome and expert knowledge.
“We provide something for everyone,” Nigel explains.
“From those searching for 40s, 50s or 60s outfits for a vintage occasion or themed wedding, to motorsport fans dressing for Goodwood Revival, we love helping our customers find their unique style. Mixing vintage with modern creates incredible looks – and our men’s vintage section is one of the best around!”
A hub for creativity and opportunity
For crafters and creators, the haberdashery section is an Aladdin’s cave of fabrics, buttons, patterns, and yarn – perfect for sewing, knitting, or upcycling projects.
The shop also offers volunteering opportunities that can build skills and confidence. Faith, a young team member, has gained valuable retail experience that could lead to a career.
Barbara, Nigel’s senior volunteer, has found and developed a real flair for designing and displaying wonderful window ideas, and managing to put them into practice.
Joining the team is Jane, the shop’s new supervisor, whose enthusiasm and support have already made a wonderful impact. Alongside her, the volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the shop, offering invaluable support to Nigel and helping ensure the shop’s success.
“All of our volunteers are priceless,” Nigel says, “and the shop simply couldn’t thrive without them.”
Student perks and sustainable style
Students enjoy a 10% discount all year round, making it a budget-friendly way to express personal style. From themed parties and weddings to everyday outfits, Pilgrims Vintage and Retro proves that sustainable fashion can be exciting, affordable, and one-of-a-kind.
Why visit?
Because you simply can’t visit Canterbury without popping into this hidden gem on Burgate – a street full of charm, history, and independent spirit.
Whether you’re hunting for a graduation outfit, a quirky home accessory, or your next sustainable fashion fix, you’ll find it here – and every purchase supports Pilgrims Hospices’ free care for people across our community.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 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.
4th June 2025
Celebrate Pride in style with Store50 – where fabulous meets fundraising!
Canterbury is bursting with colour this Pride, taking place on Saturday 7 June 2025 – and we’re right there with you!
Join the celebrations at Store50, the bold, brilliant, beautifully bonkers charity shop run by Pilgrims Hospices.
We’re flying our rainbow flag with pride and sharing the love with limited-edition earrings and super fun phone charms – handmade, eye-catching, and perfect for adding that extra sparkle to your look.
Whether you’re dressing for the parade, cheering from the sidelines, or simply living your best colourful life – pop in and find your Pride accessory of dreams. First-timers are genuinely surprised by the amazing stock on our shelves – and nearly everyone becomes a regular after just one visit!
At Pilgrims Hospices, we are proud to stand together during Pride and every day of the year. We are committed to being open, diverse and equal, respecting and celebrating the individuality of our patients, families, staff and volunteers. Everyone is welcome, and we are here for anyone who needs our support. Inclusivity is at the heart of our care – and we’re working to make sure equality, diversity and inclusion are woven into everything we do.
Store50 is more than a shop – it’s a joyful, planet-friendly place to shop sustainably, support your local community and celebrate life. Every purchase helps Pilgrims Hospices provide expert care to local people living with life-limiting illness. That’s style with real substance.
Eco-friendly shopping = less waste, more love.
Reuse, recycle and re-love – great for your wardrobe and the world!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
23rd April 2025
Sustainable style at Pilgrims Hospices Canterbury Vintage shop and Store50
These two treasure troves offer an array of unique pieces, perfect for anyone looking to make a sustainable style statement.
Canterbury Vintage and Retro brims with timeless classics from retro eras, where high-waisted trousers, polka-dot dresses, and tailored blazers transport you to a more elegant time.
Meanwhile, Store50 brings you modern twists with repurposed and retrended pieces, blending vintage charm with contemporary flair.
Together, they offer endless opportunities to mix and match, experiment, and craft a wardrobe that is as unique as you are.
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All items are preloved and generously donated by supporters who trust that discerning shoppers like you will cherish these treasures and give them a vibrant new lease of life. From timeless vintage gems to creatively repurposed garments, each piece has its own story and charm, waiting to become part of yours.
Whether you’re seeking a bold retro jacket, a delicate vintage scarf, or reimagined denim with a contemporary edge, these shops have something for every style enthusiast. Plus, by shopping with Pilgrims Hospices, you’re not only redefining your wardrobe – you’re making a difference. Every purchase helps fund compassionate end-of-life care for those in need across our local community.
To get inspired, explore the beautifully styled outfits showcased in the photographs, featuring one-of-a-kind items from both shops.
Visit Canterbury Vintage and Retro and Store50 today, where fashion meets purpose. Give preloved treasures a new home and support Pilgrims Hospices in providing vital care.
Together, let’s celebrate sustainable style and compassionate care.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
4th April 2025
Pilgrims Hospices’ Store50 in Canterbury reopens with exciting new look and stock
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of Store50, our beloved charity shop in St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, following an extensive refurbishment.
The refreshed store is now open, offering an enhanced shopping experience filled with fantastic pre-loved fashion and unique outfit opportunities.
Discover your perfect look
With a stylish new layout and an abundance of fashionable finds, customers can now create their own special outfits from our carefully curated collection of second-hand fashion.
Whether you’re searching for a chic party ensemble, a stylish work outfit, or something casual yet trendy, our friendly team is always ready to help you put together the perfect look.
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New sportswear department
One of the most exciting additions to Store50 is our brand-new sports department, located on the upper floor. This dedicated space showcases high-quality sportswear from well-known brands, ensuring shoppers can find activewear that makes their outfits pop.
Amy, Store50’s Shop Manager, shared her enthusiasm:
“We knew that sportswear was always one of our most popular ranges, so we’ve dedicated more space and created a fantastic display area to showcase our products. We can’t wait for our customers to explore this new section and discover great finds.”
Sustainable shopping for a better future
By shopping at Store50, customers are not only refreshing their wardrobes, but also making a positive impact on the environment. Buying pre-loved fashion helps reduce carbon footprints and supports sustainable shopping habits.
Plus, by visiting us on foot or using eco-friendly transport, shoppers are helping to protect our planet while raising vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices’ compassionate end-of-life care services in the community.
We invite everyone to visit Store50, explore our exciting new stock, and be part of a shopping experience that is both stylish and sustainable.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce that the Canterbury Retail Christmas Fair, held on Saturday 30 November 2024 at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, raised an incredible £2,450 – surpassing last year’s total!
Charlotte Brown, Pilgrims Hospices’ Shop Manager at the St. Dunstan’s shop, and her dedicated team of volunteers created a magical festive atmosphere, welcoming hundreds of visitors eager to shop for Christmas decorations, gifts, toys, and more. The day wouldn’t have been complete without special appearances from Father Christmas and Mrs. Christmas, delighting children and adults alike.
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“Thank you so much to everyone who supported our Christmas Fair,” said Charlotte. “We love hosting this event for our local community, who support us so brilliantly. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and welcome new ones, with many stopping to enjoy tea, cake, and a friendly chat. Every penny raised will go towards providing vital end-of-life care in our community.”
Pilgrims Hospices is immensely grateful for the support that makes events like this so successful, helping to continue the charity’s mission of providing compassionate care to those who need it most.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
