More than 400 people took part in Saturday’s Night To Shine charity walk in aid of Pilgrims Hospices.
Setting out from The Pavilion in Broadstairs, walkers took a picturesque coastal route to Ramsgate and back. Every penny raised will help to provide continued Pilgrims care across east Kent.
Before setting off, supporters enjoyed disco music provided by Pilgrims staff member Pete Jevons and were invited to join in with a fun warm-up with local fitness fans Nina, Becks and Sally who were joined by Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager Karen Kenward and Pilgrims mascot bear Raffles.
At 7pm with A Night to Shine T-shirts, memory lanterns and glowing accessories, supporters set off along a moonlit beach, rising up through Louisa Bay Gap, and then shining along the coastline to Margate.
Karen Kenward, community fundraising manager for Pilgrims Hospice Thanet, said: “It really was a night to shine, a truly wonderful evening. Thank you to everyone who took part, whether they were walking in memory of loved ones or there to support Pilgrims as an important local charity, every penny raised by their efforts will go to help make sure we are there for the next family that needs us.
“To hear the laughter, see the glowing lights and see the sea of flashing lights, bunny ears and crazy accessories was quite magical.
“The Thanet community excelled its self once again with volunteers marshalling, registering supporters and ensuring everyone enjoyed the event. A special thank you to Thorley Taverns who generously hosted our event. Thank you to everyone who participated in making the evening such a lovely success.”
Walks also took place in Canterbury and Ashford.
Each year Pilgrims supports hundreds of local people coping with a life limiting illness. The charity offers a range of services: from end of life care given on its wards, to its new wellbeing and social programme supporting people after they are diagnosed to live well and stay independent.
Every day in east Kent 19 people receive the news that they have a terminal illness and have less than a year to live. That number that is likely to rise by 2020.
Around 75% of Pilgrims funding comes from the local community.