Spectacular sunshine and community spirit shine at Pilgrims Way Challenge 2026
Smiles, determination and spectacular summer weather made for a truly unforgettable day as more than 650 participants took part in the Pilgrims Way Challenge 2026 on Saturday 20 June, raising vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices across east Kent.
In an incredible show of community spirit and generosity, the event has already raised an amazing £135,000 so far, with funds continuing to grow as sponsorship and donations keep coming in. Every mile walked or run and every pound raised will help Pilgrims Hospices continue providing skilled, compassionate end-of-life care to local people and those closest to them.
Oliver Scott from Chilham ran the 55km route
Supporters travelled from across Kent and further afield to enjoy this much-loved annual fundraising event, choosing from three distances – 25km, 35km or the full 55km challenge – along one of England’s most historic and beautiful national trails.
With rolling countryside, picturesque villages and plenty of moments to celebrate along the route, participants embraced the challenge while helping ensure Pilgrims Hospices can continue providing skilled, compassionate end-of-life care to local people and those closest to them.
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Conditions were glorious throughout the day, with sunshine providing the perfect backdrop for the event.
Every effort was made to support participant wellbeing in the warm weather, with plentiful refreshment stops, snacks, drinks, medical support and dedicated event teams helping everyone stay safe and enjoy the experience.
Paul Harris and James Parsons from BM Ambulance Service
One team making an incredible impact was PHA – Let Loose!, a group of staff from Pilgrims Hospice Ashford, who completed the 25km Canterbury to Wye route together and have raised an outstanding £3,260 so far.
The team said:
“Despite the incredibly hot day, we had the best time! Enjoying each other’s company, we laughed a lot, tackled some challenging inclines and kept each other going, knowing every step was helping make a real difference for our patients and their families. Thank you so much to everyone who sponsored us.”
The Ashford team chose to take on the challenge because they see first-hand every day the difference Pilgrims makes to patients and their loved ones.
Pilgrims Hospices relies heavily on fundraising to help meet annual running costs of £17.5 million.
The PHA Let Loose team
Head of Fundraising, Kate Duddell, said:
“What a fantastic day! Seeing so many people come together, challenge themselves and support hospice care across east Kent was incredibly special. The atmosphere was full of encouragement, laughter and determination from start to finish.
“We’re also delighted to announce that since the event began in 2018, it has now surpassed a total of £1 million raised for hospice care in east Kent.
Thank you to every participant who signed up, fundraised and took on the challenge. A very special thank you goes to our amazing band of volunteers, from registration teams and route marshals to those running rest stops, cheering supporters on and helping behind the scenes. We simply could not hold these special fundraising events without their dedication, energy and generosity. They truly make the day possible.”
The Pilgrims Way Challenge continues to be one of Pilgrims Hospices’ most popular fundraising events, helping ensure expert hospice care remains available to local families when they need it most.
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.
8th May 2026
Hundreds of cyclists ride for care in 16th Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
Cyclists of all abilities took to the roads of east Kent on Sunday 3 May 2026 for the 16th annual Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge, a much-loved event that continues to bring the community together in support of local hospice care.
Riders could choose from five scenic routes: The Circuit (30 miles), The Classic (50 miles), The Challenge (75 miles), The Century (100 miles), and the ultimate test, The Epic (125 miles). Each route showcased the stunning Kent countryside, offering something for everyone, from first-time riders to seasoned cyclists.
The day began under grey skies, but spirits remained high as participants set off.
As the morning progressed, the weather brightened, making for a perfect day in the saddle. Along the routes, dedicated rest stops provided welcome refreshments, encouragement, and a chance for riders to recharge before continuing their journey.
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Behind the scenes, a huge team of volunteers worked tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the event and on the day itself. From carefully signing the routes and preparing rest stops, to organising snacks and cheering riders along the way, their efforts were vital to the event’s success.
Pilgrims Hospices simply could not run this important fundraising event without the generous support of local organisations, communities, as well as the incredible commitment of volunteers who give their time so freely. Special thanks are also given to the event sponsors, University of Kent Sport, Barretts and Biketart.
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L R Liz Goodwin (PHC Wellbeing Practitioner) And Volunteer Martin Cook
Thanks to the fantastic support of 770 riders, this year’s event has already raised an outstanding £90,000 and counting as individual sponsorship continues to be sent to the charity, all raised to support Pilgrims Hospices in providing compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent.
Head of Fundraising, Kate Duddell said:
“We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, volunteered, or supported the Cycle Challenge this year. It’s always inspiring to see so many people come together, each with their own reason for riding. Every mile cycled helps us continue our vital work caring for patients and their families.”
Richard Bonsier from Ashford, who completed the 75-mile Challenge route, said:
“It’s the best ride of the year, everyone is so friendly and looks out for each other along the way.”
Richard Bonsier
Bradleigh Pettman from Margate, who cycled the 30-mile route with family members and colleagues as part of the Premier Signs team, took part in memory of his dad, Ian Pettman, owner of Premier Signs, who was cared for by Pilgrims Hospices. He said: “We’re proud to cycle in Dad’s memory and to support the incredible care Pilgrims provides to families like ours.”
Premier Signs team
The Cycle Challenge has become a firm fixture in the local calendar, not only for its fundraising impact but for the sense of community and shared purpose it creates.
Pilgrims Hospices extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the event such a success and looks forward to welcoming riders back again next year.
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.
16th April 2026
From gigs to generosity: Neon Rush raises more than £11,700 for Pilgrims Hospices
Neon Rush, a popular Thanet-based cover band, has raised an incredible £11,742.45 for Pilgrims Hospices through a year of community fundraising under their Thanet Rocks campaign.
The idea began when the band were challenged to give something back to the community that has supported them for so many years. Rather than choosing a charity themselves, they asked their followers to decide, and the response was clear, with Pilgrims Hospices chosen as the beneficiary.
What started as a single charity gig quickly grew into a full programme of fundraising events across Thanet. Throughout 2025, the band hosted quiz nights, organised raffles with generous support from local businesses, and sold merchandise with all profits donated.
A standout moment included the “Golden Ticket” raffle, where one lucky winner received a live performance from the band.
The campaign reached its peak in September 2025 with the Thanet Rocks Charity Music Festival at the Broadstairs Pavilion. Hundreds of people attended the sold-out event, which featured local bands, solo artists and a 100-strong Rock Choir, all donating their time to support the cause.
Additional fundraising highlights included a 3 Peaks Challenge, a sponsored head shave, and craft sales, all contributing to the final total.
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Andy Bolger from Neon Rush said:
“We wanted to give something back, and by involving our community we’ve been able to achieve something really special. It shows the power of music to bring people together and make a difference.”
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager at Pilgrims Hospices, added:
“This incredible total reflects the passion and dedication of everyone involved. Every pound raised helps us provide vital care for patients and their families across east Kent.”
Neon Rush with Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager
With their first year complete, Neon Rush has already confirmed plans to continue fundraising in 2026, including another Thanet Rocks music festival in September.
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 April 2026
Community turns out for Pilgrims Hospices’ first Miner’s Way Challenge
Hundreds of supporters took part in Pilgrims Hospices’ brand-new Miner’s Way Challenge on Saturday 28 March 2026, raising funds for local hospice care.
Participants chose from a range of distances to suit all abilities, including a 22km cross-country trail route, 20km and 10km tarmac training routes, and a 3km family trail, ensuring the event was accessible to all ages and experience levels.
The cross-country 22km route set off from a chilly Aylesham, following the Miner’s Way Heritage Trail, while other routes followed a tarmac route within the stunning Betteshanger Country Park in Deal, where participants were welcomed by a bright spring morning. In total, the event has raised £16,000 so far, with donations still coming in.
Runners on the longer route faced brisk early conditions as they set off from Aylesham on one of the brightest March mornings so far, adding to the challenge as they made their way through east Kent’s countryside.
Billy Williams, Events Fundraising Manager for Pilgrims Hospices said:
“We’re so pleased with the success of our very first Miner’s Way Challenge. The atmosphere was fantastic, and it’s been inspiring to see so many people come together to support hospice care in our community.”
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Participants praised the event, with one walker saying:
“It was such a well-organised day, the support along the route was amazing.”
Another added:
“A brilliant event for a wonderful cause. I’ll definitely be back next year.”
Pilgrims’ dedicated volunteers played a key role throughout the day, supporting participants from start to finish, with many taking the time to share their thanks and describe it as a “brilliantly run event”.
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Karen Warden, Chair of Pilgrims Hospices Trustees, was at the finish line at Betteshanger Country Park to congratulate participants, including those completing the cross-country trail from Aylesham.
With a strong sense of community spirit throughout, and many taking part in memory of loved ones, the Miner’s Way Challenge has made a memorable debut and looks set to become a firm favourite in the Pilgrims events calendar.
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.
26th March 2026
Fundraising together, caring together
Thank you for a record breaking year and here’s to 2026!
As we move into spring, we’re looking back with huge gratitude at what you our incredible supporters helped to achieve.
It’s been an extraordinary period for Pilgrims Hospices fundraising, and the impact of those funds is already being felt by patients and families across east Kent.
Every event, every step, every pedal, and every donation helps to ensure specialist hospice care is there when people need it most. Behind the fundraising totals are stories of love, remembrance, community and people coming together to honour someone special, give back for care received or to just take part and enjoy a fantastic Pilgrims event experience.
Walking and cycling challenges remained at the heart of the Pilgrims calendar. Supporters celebrated the 15th anniversary of the Cycle Challenge, marking the milestone by surpassing the previous year’s fundraising total and raising the highest total to date of £157,500.
Then came a truly historic moment: the Pilgrims Way Challenge raised £197,000, the largest amount ever raised by a single Pilgrims event. A phenomenal achievement by everyone who walked, volunteered, supported and donated.
There was thrill-seeking too, with brave supporters taking part in skydives and wing walks, while runners represented Pilgrims in the London and Brighton Marathons, alongside 10Ks, half marathons and races across the region.
2026 began in style with our ever-popular Christmas Tree Recycling scheme. The scheme raised an incredible £84,000, a staggering fundraising total made possible by our wonderful local community, dedicated staff and volunteers, and local businesses who brought their teams, vans and a positive can do attitude to make the event happen.
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Fundraising magic also thrives in everyday community life.
Across east Kent, supporters organised:
Bake sales, quiz nights and coffee mornings
Garden parties and sponsored walks
Pub events and wheelie bin races
Supermarket and community collections
Sports matches, concerts and workplace events
Together, these efforts help Pilgrims provide compassionate care in people’s homes, in our hospices in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford, and via our 24-hour advice line.
Your support helps manage pain and symptoms, supports families emotionally and practically, and ensures no one faces life-limiting illness alone.
Your energy, kindness and generosity mean that when local families need us most, we can be there – with comfort, dignity and heart.
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.
24th March 2026
Ashford Freemasons donate £5,000 to support new patient call system at Pilgrims Hospices
Pilgrims Hospice Ashford has received a generous £5,000 donation from local Freemasons to help fund a new nurses’ call system for patients receiving hospice care.
The donation was made possible through a joint effort by five Ashford-based lodges, each of which pledged £500 towards the appeal:
Ashford Lodge No. 8954
South Kent Lodge No. 4303
St George Bahrain Lodge No. 7389
Stour Lodge No. 2305
Lodge of Loyalty No. 9494
Their combined contribution was then matched by the Cornwallis East Kent Freemasons Charity (CEKFC), bringing the total donation to £5,000.
Derek Warner, South Kent Lodge; Chic Cameron, Castle Lodge; Clive Hallett, St George Bahrain Lodge; Martin Kemp, Hospice Services Manager; Eric Dodd, Stour Lodge; Paul Goodwin, Ashford Lodge; Peter West, CEKFC Secretary; and Vickie, Healthcare Assistant
The grant has helped Pilgrims Hospices fund the purchase and installation of a new Medi Care automated patient alert system, part of a wider investment of more than £13,000. The system enables patients to call for assistance from various points within the building, supporting comfort, reassurance and patient safety, while helping clinical teams respond quickly when needed.
The fundraising initiative was coordinated by Paul Goodwin of Ashford Lodge, who brought the lodges together and submitted the successful matched funding application to CEKFC.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Ashford Freemasons lodges and the Cornwallis East Kent Freemasons Charity for this generous donation.
“The nurses’ call system is a vital part of the care we provide every day, and this support will help us continue to create a safe, responsive and compassionate environment for our patients and their families.”
Freemasons from the participating lodges raised their individual donations through a range of social and fundraising activities, including a Burns night, raffles, BBQs, quizzes, lunches and ladies’ nights, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting hospice care in their local 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.
