Hikers go the extra mile at the Pilgrims Way Challenge!
On Saturday 21 June, more than 700 supporters came together to take on the annual Pilgrims Way Challenge, in support of Pilgrims Hospices.
This beloved event welcomed both regular ramblers and first time participants, all coming together under the glorious sunshine in support of their local hospice.
Pilgrims Hospices are delighted to announce that thanks to the incredible efforts of everyone who took part, early estimations suggest the event has raised its biggest ever total at £170,000 – and climbing!
Walkers could choose from a 25km, 35km or 55km route, each offering its own challenge and a chance to enjoy east Kent’s beautiful countryside.
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The 55km stretched from Dover to Wye via Canterbury, and for those seeking a shorter journey, alternative routes included Dover to Canterbury at 35km, and Canterbury to Wye at 25km. With all three routes either passing through or ending at the Pilgrims Hospice in Canterbury, the hospice stayed at the centre of the day, and a clear reminder of the cause behind every step.
A team of Pilgrims’ very own hospice heroes took part in the challenge, as nurses and carers swapped their uniforms for walking boots to take on the 35km route from Dover to Canterbury.
It was a chance to raise vital funds and awareness for the compassionate care they provide every day, and to come together outside of work for a great team experience with a shared purpose.
Pilgrims nursing staff at the Pilgrims Way Challenge 2025
Head of Fundraising, Kate Duddell, said:
“Seven years ago, this started as a local hiking event and now it’s a beloved tradition that brings people together for a cause that touches so many.
“Thank you to everyone who’s joined us over the years and helped us to make it our biggest year so far!”
The true stars of the day were undoubtedly the volunteers, including crossing marshals, registration helpers, refreshment teams and signage crews. Their warm encouragement helped to lift the spirits of everyone taking part in this important Pilgrims Hospices fundraising event. Thanks to their dedication, the day ran seamlessly and was an enjoyable experience for all involved.
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A huge shout-out also goes to the 2025 headline sponsor, Kare Plus (recently re-branded as Ultima Care & Nursing). Pilgrims Hospices are incredibly grateful for your support, thank you for helping make this event possible!
Finally, Pilgrims would like to say thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this year’s challenge a resounding success. From those putting their best foot forwards at this year’s challenge, to those sponsoring and cheering from the sidelines, your enthusiasm and generosity have made a real difference for local hospice care.
Some of Pilgrims’ Everest Base Camp 2026 challengers at the Pilgrims Way Challenge 2025
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.
11th June 2025
Fiona’s Kilimanjaro climb in aid of Pilgrims Hospices
At 62 years old, Fiona Dobson from Canterbury is no stranger to a challenge – and now she’s preparing to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, where she volunteers as a Ward Support Volunteer.
The trek will take place over eight days from 6–12 June 2026, and Fiona has already raised more than £4,000 to support local hospice care.
Fiona Dobson, Ward Support Volunteer at Pilgrims Hospices
“I’m paying for my own trip because I didn’t want any of the fundraising to go towards costs – I want every penny raised to support the care Pilgrims offers,” Fiona explained.
Fiona’s relationship with Pilgrims spans nearly four decades. She began her nursing career at the hospice in 1986, working alongside well-known figures in the team such as Annie Hogben. Over the years, she went on to become a district nurse, a practice nurse, and continues to do freelance vaccination work.
“I started my career here, and I’d like to finish it here too,” she said. “Volunteering on the ward once a week means a lot to me – it’s special. I love it.”
Fiona has seen first-hand the importance of hospice care, having lost her dad at Pilgrims 20 years ago, a close friend in 2020, and her husband’s brother in December last year.
“The care is so much more than the beds on the ward – it’s the ongoing support for families, friends, and the counselling services too. That support makes all the difference.”
An experienced hillwalker and climber, Fiona has tackled a host of impressive challenges, including the Yorkshire Three Peaks, parts of the Alps and Pyrenees, and 50 Scottish “Fionas” – lesser-known peaks once referred to as Grahams – as well as a number of Munros and Corbetts.
“There are often no paths on the Fionas – it’s really rough terrain, but that’s what I love. This Kilimanjaro challenge will take it to a whole new level.”
Her preparation for Kilimanjaro is well underway. Fiona trains regularly by running the hilly paths of the Kent Downs, walking, doing yoga, going to the gym, and taking part in cycling events – including Pilgrims’ Cycle Challenge.
“I did the 50-mile route just a few weeks ago,” she said. “It was really windy this year with a big headwind – one of the hardest yet, and I’ve done it a few times! I only found out recently that a photo of me from the 2017 event is on the side of one of the Pilgrims vans!”
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Fiona and friends fundraising for Pilgrims Hospices
When she’s not training, Fiona enjoys time on the White Cliffs of Dover with her two dogs. Now retired from full-time nursing and with two grown-up children, she’s embracing the freedom to pursue challenges that make a difference.
Fiona will travel with a friend as part of a group of about 20 trekkers, and she plans to document the adventure with plenty of photos.
“I’m expecting to make some new friends – it’ll be a life-changing experience,” she said. “But most importantly, it’s all for Pilgrims. It’s a brilliant place and I’m proud to support it however I can.”
You can support Fiona’s Kilimanjaro Challenge by visiting her JustGiving page.
Do you have some time to volunteer for Pilgrims Hospices?
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.
9th April 2025
Sue’s story: Celebrating 15 years of Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge
Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge marks its 15th anniversary on Sunday 4 May 2025; in doing so, Pilgrims celebrate one of its most dedicated supporters, Sue Barrett-Austen from Ashford.
Sue has taken part in every event since the challenge began, in memory of loved ones and in appreciation of Pilgrims.
Sue completed the very first Cycle Challenge just 18 months after her best friend, Eve, received Pilgrims care.
Sue shared that “Eve was the most incredible lady. A real force of nature. She received such wonderful care in the time that she was in the hospice. But it wasn’t just her who received that care, nor just her family, but me as well, her friend.”
Sue set herself the challenge of riding an impressive 75 miles in Eve’s memory, to raise vital funds and awareness for the hospice.
She reminisced on a poignant moment of the day, saying “registration for that first Cycle Challenge was under the balcony of what had been her room. It really did feel like she was looking down on me!”
Sue’s late husband, Richard
Reflecting on how much the event has evolved since its inception, Sue told us that “it’s grown to something almost unrecognisable from those very first years. What remains unchanged is the faultless support, rest stops, planning and organisation. To see the growth in distances and numbers of participants is a magnificent testament to such a wonderful event.”
Sue shared what motivated her to keep coming back each year: “Having lost Eve, I wanted to do what I could to support the hospice and raise money.”
Her motivation grew further when her husband, Richard, was diagnosed with lung cancer and spent the last week of his life being cared for at Pilgrims.
Richard, Sue and Eve
Sue said: “Richard had supported my efforts in participating in the Cycle Challenge and, even when he was so poorly, insisted that I take part.
“We both were shown a phenomenal level of care, dignity and empathy. This is what motivates me to come back every year no matter what. It’s a little, tiny bit of payback. It is also very important to me as the event is always very close to, if not actually on, Richard’s birthday.”
Sue has special memories of Cycle Challenge over the years, and has met so many incredible people along the way. Whether at rest stops or during training rides, she has “met a whole group of wonderful people who have become good friends”, each with their own special reasons for taking on Cycle Challenge.
Incredibly, it was through this community that she met her now-husband, Jay.
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Sue and Jay taking part in Pilgrims Cycle Challenge
Sue’s story shows how Pilgrims not only cares for patients, but also loved ones into the future, by creating a supportive community that continues even after bereavement.
Sue is a super fundraiser, and has even become a Pilgrims volunteer, giving her time back to her local hospice. She has raised an astonishing £13,319 in memory of Eve and Richard, which has directly helped support others who need Pilgrims’ care.
Sue has her own fundraising tips and tricks to share: “Keep people up to date on your progress, training, your goals and why you are doing it. Share your achievements, photos, and any anecdotes!”
For anyone thinking about signing up to Cycle Challenge, Sue has one piece of advice – do it!
Whether you’re taking part in memory of a loved one, or are keen to support your local hospice, Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge really has it all, as Sue says:
“The atmosphere of excitement, nerves and camaraderie at the start. Seeing those motivational signs on the hills! All the volunteers and Pilgrims staff at the fantastically catered rest stops. The welcoming bell, the smiles, the hugs, the feeling of achievement at the end… I enjoy everything about the day!
“I am so very proud to have participated in Cycle Challenge every year. It means such a lot to me, more so than any other event. I intend to keep going in one way or another for as long as I am here. I am taking on the 100-mile route this year. I feel very humbled that I’m able to participate, and grateful for the support I have received from family, friends and my very dear Pilgrims community.”
If you’d like to support Pilgrims by taking on Cycle Challenge, visitpilgrimscyclechallenge.orgto get involved.
With six ride distances to choose from, there’s something for all fitness levels!
To celebrate the event’s 15th anniversary, a brand-new 15-mile route has been introduced to encourage even more participants to join in the fun. For this route only, entry has been opened to those aged 12 years and over, creating an exciting opportunity for families to cycle together, as well as being perfect for beginners or those seeking a shorter ride.
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.
2nd April 2025
Calling all artists! Submit your artwork for Pilgrims Hospices’ charity auction
Local artist Anthony Giles is once again generously opening his Margate studio for Pilgrims Hospices’ 100 Pieces of Art charity auction on Saturday 28 June 2025.
The last event raised over £8,000 for local hospice care, thanks to an incredible mix of established and emerging artists.
Now it’s your turn! We’re inviting artists of all ages and skill levels to contribute a painting, drawing, ceramic, or sculpture to help us reach our goal of 100 auction pieces. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your talent while supporting Pilgrims Hospices’ vital end-of-life care.
Past highlights and inspiration
Last year’s auction featured stunning works, including:
Shane McCoubrey’s vibrant and expressive “Colourful, Abstract”
Russell Tovey’s playful and quirky “Funny Face One”
Katrina Dallamore’s moody and atmospheric “Dusk”
Anthony Giles’ own submission, demonstrating his continued support for the cause
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L-R: Artwork by Anthony Giles, Katrina Dallamore with her artwork “Dusk”, Russell Tovey’s “Funny Face One”
With so many talented local artists taking part, this event is also a fantastic opportunity for budding artists to showcase their work for the first time.
How to take part
Deadline for submissions: Monday 5 May 2025
Accepted artwork:Paintings, drawings (postcard size up to 65cm x 45cm), ceramics, and sculpture
Location: Anthony Giles Studio, 3 Lombard Street, Margate, Kent CT9 1EJ
Shane McCoubrey with his artwork
Auction and viewing details
Artwork viewing:24–27 June (10 am–4 pm) & 28 June (10 am–12 pm)
Auction starts: 1 pm on Saturday 28 June
Bidding options: In person, by phone, or by placing a bid before the auction
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager at Pilgrims Hospices, said:
“Anthony has been a wonderful supporter of our art events, and we’re delighted to host another auction in his beautiful studio. This is an exciting way for artists and the community to come together for a great cause. We’d love to see both seasoned and budding artists get involved!
“We are delighted to announce that this year’s auction will once again be conducted by the well-known consultant valuer and auctioneer, James Linington, The Canterbury Auction Galleries. His expertise and passion for art will add an extra layer of excitement to the event.
“This is your chance to donate your talent, gain exposure, and support a fantastic cause!”
Auction catalogues (£5) will be available closer to the event from Pilgrims Hospice Thanet and Anthony Giles Studio.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices supports hundreds of people facing life-limiting illnesses and their families. Your contribution will help fund compassionate care and support services.
Get creative, get involved, and let’s make this auction a huge success!
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.
25th March 2025
Cheyenne takes on London Marathon for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of mum
In August 2024, Cheyenne Williams from Dover was delighted to receive a call offering her a place in the London Marathon. On Sunday 27 April 2025, she will take on the world-famous challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospices, hoping to raise £1,800 for local hospice care.
Cheyenne will run in memory of her mum, Belinda (Bill) Williams, who was cared for by Pilgrims in 2002-2003, aged 37, when Cheyenne was just 6 years old.
Cheyenne with her mum, Bill
Reflecting on that time, Cheyenne said:
“I have very special memories of spending time with my mum at the hospice. The wonderful staff enabled our family to have some normality and routine during a frightening and difficult time. We were able to enjoy dinner together, my siblings and I were supported with art therapy, and we spent evenings playing in the garden with my parents. When my mum came to the end of her life, the amazing staff at Pilgrims supported her to die at home, which was her last wish. I’m fundraising for Pilgrims because I want to support people who have found themselves on a similar journey.”
The marathon will be a huge challenge for Cheyenne, but with the support of friends and family, she is taking it in her stride and planning events to boost her fundraising.
She said: “I’m incredibly lucky to be running the London Marathon for Pilgrims. When I got offered a place, I couldn’t run for even 30 seconds without wheezing and feeling nauseous. I’m also terrible at socialising and find public speaking nerve-wracking, but I’ve hosted a quiz night at my local village hall, which raised over £500! It boosted my confidence, and now I’m planning a bingo night, a bake sale and a jumble sale, and I’m also hoping to host a race night.
“My partner, Josh, has been an incredible support.
“He is so encouraging and has put up with me complaining about my sore toes or when my phone doesn’t record my run! He went and got me a running buggy so I can fit in training runs on days when I’m at home with our daughter, and he helps me to make time for myself to train (or rest, which is just as important!) on days that I’m feeling rushed off my feet or overwhelmed. My lovely family have rallied around to volunteer their time and efforts with my fundraising events and will be coming to London to cheer me on in April.
“I’m also fortunate to have a wonderful group of friends and colleagues at Woodpecker Court, who have supported me with every fundraising event I’ve planned so far. The staff and students also held a ‘Wear something blue for Pilgrims Hospices’ day, which raised £100 towards my fundraising.”
Cheyenne hopes her story will inspire others to challenge themselves and step out of their comfort zone to raise vital funds and awareness for Pilgrims.
Cheyenne’s mum, Bill
She added:
“Pilgrims will always be special to me. When I drive past a Pilgrims Hospice, or find myself wandering into one of their shops, I remember my mum and the happy times we had together. I was very young when my mum passed away, so the majority of memories I have of her are from when she stayed at Pilgrims.
“I wasn’t fully aware of the gravity of the situation we were in, but I guess that’s a testament to the staff and how they cared for us; it would have been a different story if we were cramped in a hospital cubicle every evening. I cannot imagine how scared my mum must have been, but knowing that she was looked after by an incredible team, and that she was enabled, for as long as possible, to keep hold of the parts of her life that brought her joy, brings me comfort.
“I hope that I would have made my mum proud if she was here with me today. I hope that, in supporting other families who are on the same journey we went through, I’m honouring her and keeping her memory alive. I hope that the money raised will make a difference to as many people as possible, and I’m proud knowing that I’m supporting the incredible Pilgrims staff to continue their life-changing work.
“I know that all the discomfort and challenges I’m going to face over the next few months will be nothing compared to what some people are going through at the moment, and I keep reminding myself, when I’m out in the dark and the cold and the rain, it is a privilege to be able to experience life.”
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.
5th March 2025
Richard’s super skydive raises £1,400 for Pilgrims Hospices in memory of loved ones
In July 2024, to celebrate his 60th birthday, Richard Graham from Broadstairs braved a skydive for Pilgrims Hospices.
He raised an incredible £1,400 for hospice care in east Kent in memory of family members who received the charity’s compassionate care.
Nicola on her wedding day with her mum, Jacqueline
Richard and his wife, Nicola Jenkins-Graham, experienced Pilgrims’ services first-hand after Nicola’s mum, Jacqueline Jenkins, was diagnosed with cancer. Jacqueline spent time in the Ashford hospice in 2023. Nicola’s auntie, Ann Shersby, was also cared for by Pilgrims in 2024.
Nicola said: “I’m so grateful to Pilgrims for looking after my dear mum and my auntie.
“When my mum was referred to Pilgrims, I was very scared. I remember the day the wonderful Pilgrims nurse walked through our door; how lucky we were to get someone to come and see us at home, I thought! She was so kind and understanding; although she broached subjects that were a little difficult to discuss, she held our hands throughout the whole journey.
“It was then I realised that Pilgrims were not just there to care for my mum, they were there for us as a family, too. Support and visits continued, and there was always a friendly and helpful person on the end of the phone if we had concerns, or to give us reassurance we were doing the right thing.
“On 21 August 2023, Mum wasn’t doing so well. With support from Pilgrims, we decided to move her into the hospice, where a bed was available. I arrived in such a state; Mum was comfortable and safe, but the worry had got to me. As we entered the hospice, a sense of calm came over me. Mum was taken to her room by the wonderful nurses, and the amazing volunteers ushered me to a chair and brought me a big mug of tea, a supply of biscuits and a box of tissues. Their support and kindness was so appreciated, as I was tired and in shock knowing that I’d left my dear Mum’s house with her for the last time.
“Mum’s room was decorated with care to make it a home away from home. She was wrapped up and comfy and looked so relaxed. There was a balcony and views over the beautiful garden. At the end of the corridor was a serene room for relatives with tea and coffee, comfy sofas, a TV and puzzles – so, when Mum was sleeping, I was able to rest and relax in peace and quiet. The volunteers regularly checked on me to make sure I had something to eat and offered me more tea. On one occasion, the lovely Cat Darkins, Lead Spiritual Chaplain, sat with me and brought me much comfort at a difficult time.
Nicola with her auntie, Ann
“Mum was in the hospice for 10 days; she was a fighter. I cannot thank the wonderful nurses, doctors and volunteers enough for making my mum’s last days peaceful. They treated her with so much dignity and respect, and I am eternally grateful.
“I was also supported by a bereavement counsellor who helped me on my grief journey and showed me the skills I’d need to continue my life in remembrance of my dear mum.
“I would tell anyone who may need Pilgrims services: Don’t be scared to reach out; they will be there to support you through dark times, and you will feel like you have warm angel wings comforting you.
“This is why Richard and I are doing what we can to support the hospice. He celebrated his 60th birthday in 2024 and decided to jump out of the plane for Pilgrims! I was so proud of him for being so brave and raising £1,400 for such a meaningful cause. Since then, we’ve raised even more and will continue to support Pilgrims in any way we can.”
Richard with Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager
Richard added:
“Pilgrims Hospices provided exceptional care and comfort during my mother-in-law’s illness, so I signed up for a skydive and set up a JustGiving Page to raise money for them. I was overwhelmed by the incredible generosity of everyone who donated.
“When the day arrived, the weather was glorious. My wife, mum and dad, daughter, her partner, and my two lovely grandsons came to Headcorn to support me. My friend, David, also booked to jump with me as moral support. I wasn’t sure what to expect; leading up to it, I was completely relaxed. I thought maybe the nerves would kick in, but I felt calm, probably more calm than my family. It was amazing looking down out of the plane before we jumped, and the feeling is incredible as you free fall, then calmness when the parachute opens, and you slowly float back down to the ground.
“Overall, it was an exhilarating experience that I will never forget. It was made even more meaningful with my family being there and being able to raise so much money for the wonderful Pilgrims Hospices. I am so grateful for everyone’s support and generosity.”
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If you’d like to support Pilgrims by taking on a challenge for local hospice care, visit pilgrimshospices.org/events to find out how you can get involved.
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.
