Spring was in the air for the Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge on Bank Holiday Sunday!
More than 1,000 cyclists enjoyed a beautiful sunny Bank Holiday Sunday exploring the stunning Kent countryside at the 14th annual Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge. Riders of all abilities took part, collectively cycling more than 73,360 miles, the equivalent of cycling around the equator three times, to support the skilled and compassionate end-of-life care the charity provides across east Kent.
So far, this year’s event has raised £116,000; with indications that the total could reach as much as £120,000 for Pilgrims, once all donations and Gift Aid are finalised.
Individuals, families, friends, cycling clubs, local businesses, and services throughout Kent, took on the 30, 50, 75, 100, or 125-mile challenge. Bright skies and dry roads were the perfect conditions for Pilgrims’ flagship fundraising event. Ever since the event first took place in 2010, supporters have raised an astonishing £1.3 million to help people who need Pilgrims’ care within our community.
We congratulate all the riders for achieving their goals and for their incredible support for the end-of-life care Pilgrims provides.
Kate – Pilgrims
All routes started and finished at Pilgrims Event Village at the University of Kent, near Canterbury. Returning cyclists could enjoy a celebratory atmosphere, a sports massage, and well-earned refreshments after collecting their commemorative medal.
Kate Duddell, Pilgrims event organiser, said, “It was brilliant to see such a strong show of support for Pilgrims! We congratulate all the riders for achieving their goals and for their incredible support for the end-of-life care Pilgrims provides.
“It’s a privilege to organise the event, and seeing it year after year, I’m always reminded how much of a team effort it is. Our army of volunteers is just outstanding, and they gave up their bank holiday weekend to help make the whole experience safe and enjoyable for our riders. I can’t thank them enough! Nor the waves of cyclists who puff their way around the course in support each year.”
“I must also thank Barretts, Biketart, and Kent Sport for their wonderful support for the event, which enables us to maximise the amount of funds we can raise for hospice care.”
Care is provided from three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. To offer these services to patients and their families, the charity must raise £11 million each year from the generous local community.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to over 2,500 people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity supports patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
3rd November 2023
Donate an Hour of Pay this Christmas in support of local hospice care : You can truly make a difference
As we approach the end of 2023, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our lives, our blessings, and our opportunities to make a positive impact on the world. One meaningful way to end the year on a high note is by donating an hour of pay to Pilgrims Hospices charity. This act of generosity not only supports an important cause, but also embodies the spirit of giving that defines the festive season.
Pilgrims Hospices is a local charity dedicated to providing hospice care, and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and their families. Their mission is to ensure that every patient’s journey is as comfortable and dignified as possible, and they rely on the support of generous donors to continue their vital work.
By donating an hour of pay before your out of office is switched on for the festive break, you will be making the most of your last working hour of the year. It’s a simple yet impactful way to engage your workforce in philanthropy and create a sense of shared purpose within your organisation.
There are several compelling reasons why this “Donate an Hour of Pay ” campaign is a fantastic idea, especially for those who may be unable to participate in other charity events or challenges:
Inclusivity: Not everyone can spare the time or energy for physical challenges or fundraising events. Donating a portion of your pay is a practical and inclusive way for all employees to contribute, regardless of their circumstances.
Collective Impact: When a business encourages its employees to participate, it multiplies the impact. Imagine the collective power of an entire organization donating the last hour of their pay!
Local Engagement: Supporting a local charity like Pilgrims Hospices is an excellent way for businesses to connect with their communities and demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of those in their vicinity.
Building a Culture of Giving: Incorporating philanthropy into your corporate culture can foster a sense of fulfilment, unity, and pride among employees. It not only benefits the charity but also strengthens employee morale.
To get involved, businesses can register their pledge to support Pilgrims this Christmas on our website: Donate an Hour of Pay
They will then receive a digital fundraising toolkit which has everything you need to encourage your workforce to support the campaign too.
As we close the chapter on 2023 and look forward to a new year filled with hope and possibilities, let us also remember the power of giving. Donating an hour of your pay to Pilgrims Hospices charity is a meaningful and inclusive way to make a positive impact and set the tone for a more compassionate and caring 2024.
So, this New Year’s Eve, let us come together, individuals and businesses alike, and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Your support for Pilgrims Hospices will not only be a gift to those in their care but a testament to the spirit of unity, compassion, and generosity that defines our community.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
27th September 2023
Pilgrims Hospices Charity Golf event raises over £10,300 for Hospice Care
In a day filled with golf, sunshine, and heartfelt speeches, the Pilgrims Hospices Charity Golf Day at Canterbury Golf Club on September 15, 2023, was a resounding success, raising more than £10,300 for hospice care.
The event, featuring a shotgun start, brought together 18 teams of four enthusiastic golfers, all teeing off with a shared goal in mind: to support Pilgrims Hospices in their mission to provide essential care and support for individuals with life-limiting illnesses.
Under the warm and glorious weather, participants showcased their golfing prowess while contributing to a cause close to their hearts. The picturesque Canterbury Golf Club served as the perfect backdrop for a day filled with camaraderie and charitable spirit.
The highlight of the event was the heartfelt speeches delivered by distinguished guests. The Lord Mayor of Canterbury graced the occasion with her presence and expressed her gratitude to the event organisers and participants for their unwavering support of hospice care in the community. CEO Helen Bennett also took the stage, offering words of appreciation for everyone involved, emphasising the vital role Pilgrims Hospices plays in providing comfort and care to those in need.
We are delighted that this year’s golf day has raised more than £10,300 – our best one yet!
Leila – Pilgrims
“The success of this charity golf event is a testament to the incredible generosity and community spirit that exists within our community,” said Helen Bennett, CEO of Pilgrims Hospices. “The funds raised today will make a significant difference in our ability to provide quality hospice care to those who rely on our services.”
The day’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of sponsors, including this year’s headline sponsors, Bauvill, volunteers, and the enthusiastic participants. Every swing of the golf club and every donation contributed to the overall success of the event and the advancement of hospice care in east Kent.
Event Organiser Leila Ilkhan Pilgrims Corporate and Trusts Partnerships Manager said: “We are delighted that this year’s golf day has raised more than £10,300; our best one yet! A huge thank you to all 72 golfers for teeing off for local hospice care and supporting the charity to continue delivering specialist end of life care to people in east Kent.”
Pilgrims Hospices extends its heartfelt thanks to all those who participated, sponsored, volunteered, and attended the charity golf day. Your support ensures that individuals with life-limiting illnesses receive the care, compassion, and dignity they deserve.
Leila added: “We also extend our grateful thanks to Canterbury Golf Club, for such a well-maintained golf course, attentive staff, and hospitable grounds people, who certainly enhanced the overall enjoyment of our golfing experience.”
For more information about Pilgrims Hospices and their ongoing efforts to provide hospice care, please visit www.pilgrimshospices.org.
About Pilgrims Hospices:
Pilgrims Hospices is a registered charity that provides palliative care and support to individuals with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. With a mission to ensure that everyone in their community can access compassionate and comprehensive hospice care, Pilgrims Hospices has been dedicated to improving the lives of patients and their families for over 35 years.
Each year Pilgrims Hospices give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
