Sailing Community's Tribute Raises Vital Funds for Hospice Care
Pilgrims Hospice Thanet has received a generous annual donation of £2,362 from the Dyson Dash Pilgrims Hospice Race, held at Broadstairs Sailing Club during the August Bank Holiday weekend. The cheque was formally presented to Karen Kenward, Community Fundraising Manager at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet, by Michael Todd, Vice Commodore of Broadstairs Sailing Club.
A Lasting Legacy for Steve Dyson
Michael Todd explained the heartfelt origins of the event, which began as a tribute to club member and former Flag Officer Steve Dyson, who passed away on 25 August 2008. Steve spent his final days at the Margate Hospice, where he received exceptional care. In gratitude for this support, the sailing club decided to create an event to give something back.
What started as a personal memorial has since evolved into a celebration honouring all past members from several local clubs, including the Royal Temple Yacht Club, Minnis Bay Sailing Club, Margate Yacht Club, and Downs Sailing Club. Sailors from these clubs continue to support the race each year, strengthening its community spirit.
Seventeen Years of Community Support
For the past 17 years, the Dyson Dash has been a fixture of the August Bank Holiday, featuring three back-to-back races. The event operates on a donation-based entry system, with all proceeds – including bar takings and buffet meal donations – going directly to Pilgrims Hospices.
The event benefits from significant local sponsorship. Ramsgate Brewery (Gadds') acts as a major sponsor, generously providing a free 72-pint barrel of Seasider ale every year. This year, they were joined by Pips Cider, which donated two polypins of cider.
To date, the Dyson Dash has raised a phenomenal £39,375.09 for the Margate Hospice. The sailing club expressed immense pride in their ongoing connection with Pilgrims Hospices and looks forward to supporting them for many years to come.
Funding Specialist Care for the Community
Karen Kenward thanked the organisers and supporters on behalf of the charity. She emphasised that these incredible donations over the past 17 years have helped to fund more than 1,575 hours of specialist care, provided both in the hospice and in patients' own homes.
She added that the hospice simply couldn't provide its vital services without such continued generosity, extending warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all involved.
Pilgrims Hospices offers compassionate, specialist care free of charge to thousands of people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting illnesses. Support is available in patients' homes, in the community, and at their three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet, and Ashford, complemented by a 24-hour advice line.
