Pilgrims Hospices volunteers dedicate time and passion to Margate Bookshop: A heartfelt commitment to community and care
Nick and Gavin (the Volunteer Managers), alongside a team of 34 dedicated volunteers covering 14 shifts throughout the week, are the driving force behind the success of Pilgrims Hospice Old Bank Bookshop. Their unwavering commitment to literature and end-of-life care has made the bookshop a beloved institution in Margate, where locals and tourists alike find solace and fascination among the shelves.
The team curates a diverse selection of books, ranging from modern classics to literary prize contenders. For some of the volunteers, like Geoff, their dedication to Pilgrims Hospices is deeply personal, inspired by the exceptional care provided to his late wife, Jane, by the Canterbury Hospice team.
In addition to his role at the bookshop, Geoff actively supports Pilgrims Hospice’s Stepping Stones Bereavement Support Services. As an active listener, he leads a walk-and-talk group for bereaved individuals within the community. His caring personality, passion for walking and nature serve as a source of comfort and support for those in need.
Ruth, another valued volunteer, brings her retail expertise to the forefront, ensuring captivating and ever-changing book displays. Her commitment is fuelled by both her love for literature and the support she received from Pilgrims Hospices during her husband Colin’s illness and passing.
Gavin, finding solace and purpose in volunteering after his wife Joy’s illness, ensures the shop remains open on weekends, demonstrating the profound impact of hospice care during difficult times.
Nick, with a background in local government, volunteers three days a week, embodying the spirit of community support. His love for the written word shines through as he assists customers and showcases the shop’s collection of vintage and collectible records, all in support of Pilgrims Hospices.
Together, these and the many other volunteers form the heart of the Old Bank Bookshop, where every purchase contributes to providing essential end-of-life care to those in need. With over £100,000 raised last year alone, the shop’s success is a testament to their dedication and hard work, as well as the community’s generosity and compassion.
As Geoff, Ruth, Nick, Gavin, and their fellow volunteers continue to pour their hearts into Pilgrims Hospices Margate Old Bank Bookshop, they serve as a beacon of hope and support for their community, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism and kindness.
For those visiting Margate, the Old Bank Bookshop is on the Parade, opposite the harbour, and is open all week, including Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in winter and until 5pm in summer. Stop by to support this vital independent bookstore or learn more about Pilgrims Hospices’ pre-loved shops throughout East Kent at Pilgrims Hospices Shops
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate end-of-life care and support to individuals and their families across East Kent. With a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, Pilgrims Hospices offers a range of services aimed at enhancing quality of life and providing comfort during difficult times. Learn more at Pilgrims Hospices .
10th October 2023
Funtastic Colour Run fundraiser for Pilgrims Hospices
Was a funtastic success for Pilgrims Hospices as the Thanet 5K Colour Run took centre stage at Palm Bay, Cliftonville, Margate on Sunday, October 1st, 2023. With over 400 Pilgrims Hospices supporters participating and raising an impressive £200k plus in the seven years the event has taken place for hospice end-of-life care in east Kent, it’s clear that the event made a significant impact.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices, Community Fundraising Manager, and the entire team deserve commendation for their hard work and dedication in organising such a successful event. It’s heart-warming to see the community coming together on a spectacular day in Cliftonville.
It was exciting to see families and friends coming together to enjoy a super fun day while also supporting a local charity. The fact that the weather was spectacular only added to the joy and vibrancy of the occasion.
A brilliant way to kick off the Colour Run event was with fitness expert Jennie who did a fun warm-up for all. The dynamic and energetic warm-up session was full of fun dance moves, and prepared everyone for the colourful and exciting spectacle ahead. With cool dance music playing, participants were encouraged to move, stretch, and get their hearts pumping, creating a lively atmosphere.
Karen said: “The money raised today will undoubtedly go a long way in providing crucial support and care for those in need in the community. The Thanet 5K Colour Run is not only a fantastic way to raise money but also a beautiful example of how communities can unite for a great cause. A huge ‘High Five’ to everyone who supported us on the day, and here’s to many more successful events in the future!”
Karen added: “I would like to take the opportunity to say a huge thank you to our sponsors – Thanet Earth, Stagecoach, Copyshop and Mini Stores in Deal. Also, thank you for the support of Margate Ambulance, Academy Radio, Isle of Thanet, Frank Leppard for his incredible photos, Charles our DJ, and Kerry on the drone, and lastly to the Pilgrims staff and volunteers who help me to make this event so special. I think I can truly say we’ve all had a real colour blast of a day today and we couldn’t run the event without everyone’s wonderful support, thank you all once again!”
A huge ‘High Five’ to everyone who supported us on the day, and here’s to many more successful events in the future!”
Other promos for future events.
Look out for our Christmas Tree Recycling event in the new year 5th – 8th January 2024 and please do follow us on our Pilgrims Hospice Thanet Fundraising for all our events, including the smaller evenings out!
Each year Pilgrims’ gives care to thousands of people across east Kent. 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 approximately £11 million each year from the generous local community.
8th September 2023
Margate community volunteers are recognised with Mayor’s awards
The Mayor’s Community Awards were hosted by Margate mayor Rob Yates, and director of Resort Studios, Ayanna Bulale on Saturday 19th August. A community picnic in the Westbrook Sunken Gardens enabled the community to share in the success of friends, neighbours and colleagues who had been recognised for their commitment and dedication. Visitors enjoyed entertainment, a raffle with prizes from local authors, artists and restaurants, along with celebrating the achievements of grassroots community groups and individuals.
Mayor Rob said: “As Mayor of Margate, it gives me so much joy to be associated with the numerous community groups who are the heart of our Town.
“It has been my pleasure and privilege to personally thank these groups, a lot of whom work without the recognition they deserve.”
Almost 50 individuals and organisations received awards during the event, with everyone enjoying a community picnic in the sunshine, while being entertained by the Social Singing Choir.
Steven Turner – Pilgrims’ Ward Support Volunteer accepted the award on behalf of the Volunteer Team.
Pilgrims Hospices amazing ward support volunteers, received recognition for their dedication to the clinical team and patients in the hospices.
The Mayor personally thanked and presented handcrafted awards from Clayspace to the community groups across the seven wards of Margate, they all had an opportunity to speak about the important work they deliver day in day out.
The speakers from the organisations continually highlighted the kindness and talent within the community. The hard work of all the volunteers who dedicate their time to support organisations and charities, is highly valued and speakers agreed the community awards were a fine opportunity to say thank you.
Annie Hogben, Pilgrims Hospices Expert Volunteer Project Lead, spoke at the event, and shared her delight with all those present, acknowledging the importance of her volunteer team, and the value they add to the care that Pilgrims provide for the local community.
Steve Turner, Pilgrims Ward Support Volunteer with Health Care Assistant (HCA) Cathryn Weston attended the event. Steven accepted the award and thanked his fellow volunteers at the presentation.
Artist Tracey Emin and Margate councillors Jack Packman, Heather Keen, John Edwards, Leo Britcher and Elysa d’Abbro, county councillor Barry Lewis, Margate mayoress Iris Johnston and Ramsgate mayor Pat Moore were among the guests.
It’s heartening to learn that the Margate Community Awards event recognised individuals with awards. Acknowledging and honouring the efforts of these dedicated individuals and organisations can have a positive impact on the community, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation.
Community events like this often serve as a platform to showcase the incredible work that often goes unnoticed in local neighbourhoods. By celebrating these grassroots efforts, the event helps inspire others to get involved and make a difference as well.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people who are facing a terminal diagnosis, and their families, by providing skilled and compassionate care and enabling them to live well in every moment. Your donation can help us to be there for the next family who need us.
21st April 2023
Anthony Giles supports creative art event for Pilgrims Hospices
Local artist Anthony Giles, has generously offered his studio for Pilgrims to hold the 100 Pieces of Art charity auction, taking place on 1 July 2023. Anthony lives and works in Margate, surrounded by Turner’s best skies in the whole of Europe.
Pilgrims are inviting budding artists of all ages and abilities, to submit their paintings, ceramic or sculpture art to create 100 pieces of art to be sold at auction to help support Pilgrims Hospices’ end-of-life care.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Hospices Community Fundraising Manager said:
“Anthony has been involved with art events for Pilgrims Hospices over the years, and helped choose art for previous events. When he approached me last year, I was delighted; it’s a lovely studio, and I’m very excited to be holding a Pilgrims art event in such a prestigious venue. Our charity constantly looks for innovative and interesting ways to engage with the local community and our supporters. I’m really hoping to capture the imagination of lots of local artists, and budding artists, to help us achieve our 100 pieces for the auction.”
Anyone can submit an artwork, painting, drawing, ceramic or sculpture art; if you have a creative eye, we would love to see your work!
The auction will be held at Anthony Giles Studio, 3 Lombard Street, Margate.
The deadline for submissions isFriday 5 May 2023.
Please note:Paintings and drawings must be between postcard size 6”x 4” and 26”x 24”, framed or unframed.
Viewing will take place betweenTuesday 27 June and Friday 30 June, 10am – 4pmandSaturday 1 July, 10am – 12pm.
The auction will begin at1pm on Saturday 1 July, with pre-event drinks and nibbles from10am – 12pm.
Karen added: “Anyone can come along, so please do support this very special event; you can also make a bid prior to the auction, or on the day in person, or by telephone. This is a great opportunity to buy a beautiful piece of art, knowing that all profits from the art will help to support Pilgrims services.”
Auction catalogues will be available nearer the time of the event, costing £5 from Pilgrims Hospice Thanet and the Anthony Giles Studio, Margate.
Each year, Pilgrims supports hundreds of local people coping with a life-limiting illness and their families. The charity offers a range of services, from end-of-life care given on its wards, to its Wellbeing Programme supporting people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
14th December 2022
The countdown to Christmas has officially begun with Pilgrims Hospices Santas on the Run! Tri-Series
Hundreds of festive fundraisers braved the chilly temperatures and embraced the ho, ho, holiday spirit on Sunday 11 December 2022 as they dashed along Margate seafront at Santas on the Seashore! all for a good Claus.
Margate was filled with Christmas cheer as more than 250 honorary Santas and elves ran, jogged, skipped and walked their way along the 3k or 5k route in support of Pilgrims Hospices, who care for thousands of local people each year who are living with an incurable illness.
The event is supported by a number of local companies and organisations, including Wahl. Grace Gummer from the east Kent-based company told us: “We love supporting this fantastic festive event for such a deserving local charity. It brings the community together and raises money in aid of the great care that Pilgrims Hospices offer families at such a difficult time.”
Early estimations show that this year, Santas on the Run! Tri-Series will raise in excess of £25,000. This could help fund the entire cost of Pilgrims Hospices community care teams for five days, as they provide specialist end-of-life care to patients spending Christmas at home with their families, and creating lasting memories.
Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager, said: “Watching over 250 Santas and elves run, jog and walk through Margate on Sunday was truly a sight to been seen. Many drivers beeped their horns, and passersby cheered them all the way. I would like to personally thank Margate Ambulance, Pete our DJ, Sarah for our warm-up, Jackie on catering, Pilgrims Hospices staff, volunteers and all of our incredible supporters who came out to support this event in the cold to help raise further funding to support all of our services. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!”
Santas on the Seashore is part of Pilgrims Hospices Santas on the Run Tri Series, with festive runs taking place over three consecutive weekends in Herne Bay, Folkestone and Margate. Since the event began in 2017, Santas on the Run! has become a family tradition in the seaside towns as a way to celebrate the countdown to Christmas, and has gone on to raise over £161,000 for local hospice care.
Pilgrims Hospices would like to thank everyone who joined in the jolliest jogs of the year this festive season, and wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
8th December 2022
The countdown to Christmas has officially begun with Pilgrims Hospices Santas on the Harbour!
Hundreds of festive fundraisers got into the ho, ho, holiday spirit by dashing along the Folkestone seafront on Sunday 4 December 2022 at Santas on the Harbour!
The historic Folkestone Harbour Arm was filled with Christmas cheer as over 250 honorary Santas and elves registered to run, jog, skip and walk their way along the 3k or 5k route in support of Pilgrims Hospices, who care for thousands of local people each year living with an incurable illness.
Many families enjoyed the jolly jog.
Early estimations show that this year, Santas on the Run! Tri-Series will raise in excess of £20,000. This could help fund the entire cost of Pilgrims Hospices community care teams for four days, as they provide specialist end-of-life care to patients spending Christmas at home with their families, and creating lasting memories.
Louise Newman, Community Fundraising Manager for Ashford Hospice said: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone that braved the cold winds on Sunday at the Harbour Arm and along the chilly seafront. We really appreciate all of the wonderful fundraising from our Santas and elves, this will make a real difference to the many families being cared for by Pilgrims this Christmas.”
Santas on the Harbour is part of the Santas on the Run Tri Series, with festive runs taking place over three consecutive weekends in Herne Bay, Folkestone and Margate. Since the event began in 2017, Santas on the Run! has become a family tradition in the seaside towns as a way to celebrate the countdown to Christmas, and has gone on to raise over £161,000 for local hospice care.
There’s still time to have your ‘elf’ a merry day out with friends, family and colleagues by registering on the day at Santas on the Seashore! in Margate on Sunday 11 December. Simply head to the start venue at Fort Crescent, Margate CT9 1HX and register between 09:30-10:40am.
Wishing all Pilgrims supporters and all our speedy Santas a very Merry Christmas!
Pilgrims Hospices cares for thousands of local people each year, free of charge, during the most challenging time in their lives. They offer care and support in people’s own homes, in the community and in their inpatient units as well as running a 24-hour advice line.
