The community of Ramsgate came together for a heartfelt fundraiser day, raising some £3,000 for Pilgrims Thanet Hospice in memory of town resident Alec Monk, who passed away recently following a short battle with bone cancer.
Alec, well-known and beloved in Ramsgate’s pub scene, received compassionate care from the team at Pilgrims Thanet Hospice during his final days.
Alec, who was 57, affectionately referred to Pilgrims Thanet Hospice as his “hotel” or “his pad,” and was known for receiving many daily visitors. His family fondly recalled how the hospice staff went above and beyond to make him comfortable.
The hospice’s chefs even tailored meals to Alec’s preferences, a gesture that epitomised the warmth and dedication of the care team. Every nurse, chef, and volunteer attended to Alec’s needs with compassion and a smile.
Denise, the landlady of one of Alec’s favourite pubs, The Harbour Bar, was deeply touched by the outstanding care Alec received. Wanting to honour his memory and support the hospice, she organised a charity fundraising day involving several local pubs where Alec had been a regular.
The event featured various activities, including raffles, quizzes, live music, and a BBQ, with each pub hosting a part of the day’s festivities. To show their support for Pilgrims Thanet Hospice, all staff and participants dressed in pink.
Fundraising began at The Harbour Bar with a meat raffle organised by Denise, followed by a quiz and raffle at Macie’s, a BBQ at The Deal Cutter, and live music at The York Arms. The event concluded with more live music and a buffet at The King Street Arms.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the pubs, Alec’s friends, and the Ramsgate community, the event raised £2,580.22. An additional £420 was donated by Alec’s family, friends, and funeral attendees, bringing the total to £3,000.22—all in aid of Pilgrims Thanet Hospice.
Karen Kenward, Pilgrims’ Community Fundraising Manager, joined Alec’s family and friends for the cheque presentation on Saturday.
She said: “This incredible fundraising effort is a true testament to Alec’s popularity and the deep sense of community here in Ramsgate. The funds raised will help Pilgrims Thanet Hospice continue providing vital care and support for patients and their families. We are so grateful for the generosity of everyone involved and for the beautiful tribute to Alec.”
Twyman & Holmes Funeral Directors played a key role in Alec’s farewell. Shena Todd, Assistant Manager at Twyman’s, provided compassionate support to Alec’s family, ensuring his funeral reflected his unique personality.
A memorable touch included replacing a traditional Bible with Alec’s favourite items, a can of Foster’s and a pot noodle, in the chapel, the celebration service was delivered to perfection by Humanist Michael Finneran. The funeral, one of the largest Twyman & Holmes had ever arranged, was attended by hundreds, underscoring Alec’s widespread popularity in the community.
The fundraising day not only honoured Alec’s memory but also supported Pilgrims Hospices in their mission to provide end-of-life care to patients across east Kent. The money raised will enable Pilgrims to continue offering their essential services, providing comfort and support to patients facing life-limiting illnesses and their families.
Pilgrims Hospices care for over 2,500 people each year, helping them live as fully and comfortably as possible, free of charge. Whether in their homes, through community services, or in the inpatient units, the dedicated team offers comfort during the most challenging times.
The vital work is made possible by the extraordinary generosity of the community, who help raise the £17.2 million needed annually to continue delivering this care across Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet.
If you or someone you know is living with a life-limiting illness, Pilgrims Hospices is here for you. Speak to your GP or healthcare professional about accessing our support.
For more information or to make a donation to Pilgrims Hospices, please visit: www.pilgrimshospices.org
What a splendid idea. Well done to Denise and the Harbour Bar for coordinating the event.