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.
Store50 Pride 3
Store50 Pride 4
Store50 Pride 2
Store50 Pride 8
Store50 Pride 6
Store50 Pride 7
Store50 Pride 5
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.
11th August 2026
Fashion, furniture and online finds: Pilgrims Hospices’ Chartham store has it all
Pilgrims Hospices’ Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home store expanded in February 2026 to include a brand-new clothing, haberdashery and children’s offering. Always busy and bustling, it’s a firm favourite in the local community, with many regulars returning again and again in their quest for a bargain.
On the shop floor, staff and volunteers accept donations, sort stock, and serve at the tills. The store also houses the charity’s e-commerce team. Behind the scenes, whilst shoppers browse beautiful homewares and pre-loved treasures, they sort through thousands of items in preparation for listing on eBay and Vinted.
But although everyone has different roles, they work together seamlessly, enjoying a cuppa and a laugh as they share a common goal – to ensure that compassionate hospice care continues to be available for families across east Kent.
Volunteers find friendship and connection at Pilgrims
Richard Cope from Chartham, affectionately nicknamed Grandad by his retail colleagues, has volunteered at the shop for six years. After retiring from his job at Nasons, a large department store in Canterbury, he wanted a role where he could still meet people and be social. Richard’s dad was cared for at the Canterbury hospice, so he has a personal connection, too.
Alongside his volunteer role, Richard is also a School Crossing Patrol (SCP) at a local primary school, helping pupils to stay safe on the school run.
He said: “I love volunteering here; it’s the same reason I enjoy being a lollipop man – I meet so many people, and everyone is friendly and chatty. It’s such a lovely environment.”
Richard Cope
Ros Sawyers and Ieda Hogarth, both from Ashford, are regular volunteers at the shop; between them, they have contributed 46 years of dedicated service to Pilgrims. Ros started out working in the Wellbeing team at the Ashford hospice, supporting patients in the Therapy Centre, before moving into the fundraising team and helping with events.
That’s how she met Ieda, who was a fundraising volunteer.
Although both now volunteer their time in the retail team, they continue to be involved with Pilgrims events, including the annual summer and Christmas fairs.
Ros said: “The hospice is such a happy place; it’s sad at times, of course, but we always had a laugh and we gave a lot of happiness to patients and families.
“You meet people from all walks of life – that’s why I’ve always loved my roles at Pilgrims.”
Ieda added: “I’m on my own at home, and a lot of our volunteers are in the same boat – so for us, this is a great opportunity to be social.
“I’m not saying we’re all lonely, but it’s a friendship group, separate from family, and it provides a completely different outlet. Ros and I have made so many great memories over the years, it’s lovely.”
Ros Sawyers and Ieda Hogarth
Ginevra Arnaldi joined the team in January 2026 as a Supervisor for the new clothing outlet, ahead of its opening a month later:
“I really enjoy being creative in the shop, putting together displays and arranging items; it’s lovely when customers notice, appreciate and compliment us on this!
“Everyone here is so friendly. It’s a perfect way to volunteer for anyone who’s interested in clothing and fashion. If you want to spend a few hours having fun and making a difference at the same time, this is the place for you.”
eBay, Vinted and beyond
Pilgrims has run a successful eBay shop for many years, and more recently started selling second-hand clothes on the app Vinted. They are also looking to expand to TikTok Shop in the future.
Amy Calver, a Lister within the e-commerce team, has doubled average monthly sales on Vinted in the past year, growing them by a solid 87%; Amy said a recent favourite find was a donated Max Mara bag that sold for £90 on eBay.
Gill Ramsay, Assistant e-commerce Manager, added:
“It’s an important source of revenue for Pilgrims; using these platforms, we can maximise the profit we make from donated items. We have a much bigger audience online than we do in the shop – on eBay in particular, there are 134 million active buyers worldwide. This helps us to sell collectibles and rare items that are unique, not just within the UK, but abroad as well.”
“We’re a small team and we rely heavily on volunteers to list items for us. This takes time, as we need to clean the items, research them to make sure they’re worth listing, then photograph them before uploading them online. It’s time-consuming, so even on a good day, an effective Lister can only really list about 20 items over a seven-hour period.
“We always welcome new volunteers; we just ask that they give at least three hours to get the most out of it. We’re a friendly team of all ages – from very young people, to our oldest team member who is 82! We provide full training on the computer systems, so that isn’t a barrier for anyone. It’s a fantastic opportunity to come and help us make lots of money for Pilgrims.”
Slow Fashion Soph
In July 2026, Canterbury-based social media influencer, Soph Newman – @slowfashionsoph on Instagram – spent a day volunteering with the e-commerce team. A second-hand fashion connoisseur, Soph regularly visits charity shops and makes video content about her finds:
“I’ve loved getting to learn about the eBay and Vinted process, sorting through donations in the warehouse and choosing some amazing bits – I wanted to buy everything! The team helped me to understand the picking process, and I enjoyed seeing how items get photographed and uploaded online – what the team look for and what brands sell best. I’m making my own content around this because I want people to shop with Pilgrims; it’s such an important cause.”
Soph Newman (Slow Fashion Soph) 2
Gillian Ramsay (e Commerce Manager) With Volunteer Soph Newman (Slow Fashion Soph)
Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home is the newest addition to Pilgrims Hospices’ family of shops across east Kent, all offering an easy, enjoyable way to shop more sustainably while supporting compassionate end-of-life care.
Don’t forget – you can also donate your pre-loved items directly at the Chartham store; and if you’re a taxpayer, Gift Aid adds an extra 25% to the value of your donation at no extra cost, helping your generosity go even further.
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.
9th April 2026
Mystery Bags mania hits Margate, shoppers go wild for sustainable style!
Pilgrims Hospices’ Mystery Bags at the Margate Discount store have taken the town by storm, and the results are nothing short of amazing.
Since launching in April 2025, the much-loved £5 Mystery Bags have become a must-have for bargain hunters, fashion fans and eco-conscious shoppers alike.
And the figures speak for themselves:
844 bags sold, £4,220 raised for Pilgrims Hospices care
Elizabeth Hilden, Shop Manager at Margate Discount
Each bag, packed with at least seven items of ladies’ clothing, offers not just incredible value, but a fun, feel-good shopping experience that’s helping to fund vital end-of-life care across east Kent. Even better, the Mystery Bags are organised by clothing size, making it easy for shoppers to find pieces that fit and feel great.
From pre-loved to re-loved, and straight to the party!
Whether it’s a hen weekend in Margate, a festival-inspired outfit, or a cosy night in with friends, Mystery Bags have become a go-to for shoppers looking for something a little different. Customers are coming back time and time again, with many buying multiple bags to share, style and even showcase on social media.
Elizabeth Hilden, Shop Manager at the Margate Discount Store, said:
“We’ve had such fantastic feedback, people absolutely love the surprise element! It’s been especially popular with visitors to Margate, including hen parties looking for fun, affordable outfits. And the fact it supports Pilgrims makes it even more special.”
A confidence boost that changed a life
The success of the Mystery Bags isn’t just about sales, it’s about people too.
Madison, a young volunteer who spent nearly a year carefully creating the bags, has now secured full-time employment with a major fashion retailer. She credits her time at Pilgrims for building her confidence and retail skills.
Her journey is a wonderful example of how Pilgrims shops support not only patients and families, but the wider community too.
Sustainable, stylish, and full of surprises
Mystery Bags are a brilliant way to shop more sustainably, giving pre-loved clothing a second life while reducing waste.
It’s fashion with a conscience, wrapped up in a £5 surprise.
With fresh bags added regularly, there’s always something new to discover, so why not pop in and see what treasure you might find?
Grab yours while they last!
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
Shopping with heart: How Pilgrims Shops power hospice care
Every bargain, every bag donated, every volunteer shift – it all adds up to something extraordinary.
Across east Kent, Pilgrims Hospices’ 33 shops are more than stores; they’re vibrant community hubs where preloved treasures find new homes, people shop affordably, and every purchase helps to fund hospice care.
More than shops: They are welcoming spaces on the high street
Pilgrims Shops provide:
Affordable clothing and household essentials
Friendly, welcoming spaces on the high street
Opportunities to volunteer, learn new skills, and connect with others
Shopping second-hand also supports the planet by keeping items out of landfill, reducing demand for new products, and lowering CO₂ emissions all while raising income to support Pilgrims Hospices care services.
Ramsgate: Plans to expand into neighbouring units, offering more stock and space
Retail events making a difference
Special sales like Kilo, Media, Jumble, Table Top, and pop-up events bring new shoppers, create excitement, and raise more for hospice care – all in a fun, community-focused way.
Volunteer voices
“I started volunteering to give back, but I’ve gained so much. The team feels like family, and knowing our efforts help local hospice care makes every shift worthwhile.”
– Pilgrims shop volunteer
Be part of something special
Shop Find preloved fashion, furniture, books, and homeware.
DonateTurn unwanted items into someone else’s treasure.
Together, we’re turning everyday shopping into extraordinary care.
Ashford Discount shop
Pilgrims Retail by the numbers
By December 2025, our shops achieved remarkable results:
1,145,646 items sold
297,714 clothing items given a second life
172,065 household items rehomed
122,095 books passed on to new readers
61,208 toys enjoyed by families
10,095 furniture items sold with 1,723 deliveries
4,645 new Gift Aid donors
All made possible by 635 volunteers and 102 staff – every figure tells a story of generosity.
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.
18th February 2026
Chartham’s new Pilgrims Hospices shop is open – and already a hit!
Photograph: Chartham Furniture, Fashion and Home team
Pilgrims Hospices’ brand-new Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home store opened on Thursday 12 February 2026, and it didn’t take long for shoppers to fall in love.
The vibrant, feel-good space raised £2,914 on opening day alone, helping fund vital local hospice care.
This isn’t your usual pre-loved shop; it’s packed with hundreds of stylish finds, high street brands, creative treasures, and unique homewares. From everyday essentials to statement pieces, there’s something for everyone, plus a creative hub for crafters, sewists, and upcyclers hunting for inspiration.
Andy Brady, Shop Manager, said:
“Shoppers have been telling us how excited they are about the new store and the fantastic stock. There’s a real buzz here, and knowing it supports hospice care makes every bargain feel even better.”
Mandy Hawkett, Area Manager, added:
“Our community told us they missed having a local Pilgrims shop, and now it’s back, bigger, brighter, and better than ever. It’s a must-visit for fashion, homewares, and creativity alike!”
With plenty of parking, a friendly volunteer team, and stock that’s constantly refreshed, the new Chartham store is designed for browsing, discovering, and feeling good about every purchase.
Drop in at Unit 2/3 Stour Business Park, Chartham to see what everyone’s talking about, and maybe find your next bargain!
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.
4th February 2026
More than shopping, it’s a vibe – Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home opening soon
Photograph: Volunteer Ros Bray with Andy Brady, Shop Manager
Pilgrims Hospices is delighted to announce the opening of its exciting new Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home store on Thursday 12 February 2026, bringing a fresh, feel-good shopping destination to the heart of the community.
This is not a clearance warehouse — it’s a beautifully curated, pre-loved shopping experience packed with hundreds of high street brands, stylish finds and creative treasures, all under one roof.
After the closure of our much-loved shop at the local garden centre, supporters told us loud and clear that they missed having a place nearby to shop sustainably. Thanks to your generosity, that much-loved experience is back — and better than ever.
Fashion for everyone
Shoppers can browse an inspiring range of men’s, ladies’ and children’s clothing, with quality brands, great styles and excellent value. Whether you’re hunting for everyday essentials, a statement piece or a bargain with a story behind it, there’s something waiting to be discovered.
A new creative hub
By popular demand, the new store also features a haberdashery and creative department, perfect for crafters, up-cyclers, sewists and anyone who loves making something special from something pre-loved. Expect buttons, fabrics, patterns and hidden gems — the kind of place that sparks ideas and Instagram-worthy finds.
The fashion and home store sits alongside the much-loved Chartham Furniture Warehouse, making it easy to browse everything from clothing and accessories to homewares and furniture in one inspiring visit.
With plenty of parking and a warm, friendly team of volunteers ready to help, it’s designed to be relaxed, welcoming and fun — a place to wander, discover and feel good about every purchase.
All items are donated by Pilgrims supporters, giving quality clothing and homeware a second life while raising vital funds for hospice care across east Kent. By choosing pre-loved, shoppers are saving money, reducing waste and supporting local families — triple win shopping at its best.
At the heart of it: Volunteers like Ros
Ros
Ros Bray from Bridge has volunteered with Pilgrims Hospices’ retail team for 12 years, after first spotting a volunteers’ needed notice while visiting the furniture shop with a friend.
“I came along to meet the team — and the rest is history,” Ros smiles. “I’ve loved every minute.”
After retiring as a teaching assistant and nursery nurse, Ros wanted to give her time to a meaningful cause. “Retail volunteering fits really well with my background. I love working with people, helping customers, and I enjoy being part of such a friendly, welcoming team.”
Shop Manager, Andy Brady, said:
“We love having Ros with us. She’s organised, calm in busy situations and brings real warmth to the shop. I have a team of around 25 staff and volunteers, every one one of them is truly a valued member of my team.”
Ros volunteers three mornings a week, balancing family life and time with her grandchildren. “I enjoy helping raise funds for such important, compassionate care in our community. It’s important everyone has something that’s just for them.”
The new shop, accessible through the existing furniture store or a brand-new side entrance, is a space Ros says “is going to look amazing — shoppers will love it.”
We’d love you to join us to celebrate the official opening of Chartham Furniture, Fashion and Home on Thursday 12 February 2026, when we’ll be welcoming special guests and supporters to help mark this exciting new chapter.
Mandy Hawkett, Area Manager, said:
“The Pilgrims concession in the garden centre was a massive loss for us and the community, so we’re absolutely thrilled to be creating a new home for the amazing donations we receive from our supporters. This isn’t just a warehouse — it’s a vibrant, inspiring place to shop. We’ve listened to what people want, from great fashion to creative spaces, and we’re excited to bring something truly special back to the community.”
Andy added:
“There’s a real buzz already. The quality of children’s clothing especially is incredible — great brands, great condition and great styles. People are always amazed by what they find here, and knowing it supports local hospice care makes every bargain even better.”
Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home is the newest addition to Pilgrims Hospices’ family of shops across east Kent, all offering an easy, enjoyable way to shop more sustainably while supporting compassionate end-of-life care.
Don’t forget — you can also donate your pre-loved items directly at the Chartham store; and if you’re a taxpayer, Gift Aid adds an extra 25% to the value of your donation at no extra cost, helping your generosity go even further.
Come along, say hello, enjoy a bargain — and help us celebrate this wonderful community space.
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.
