Ralph the three-year-old Shih Tzu cross Bichon Frise will be putting his best paw forward for Pilgrims with owner Megan Bell.

The pair will be taking part in Pilgrims Hospices new sponsored walk Paws for Pilgrims in Deal next month.

They will be walking the 5K coastal route in memory of Megan's dad, Frankie Bell, who was cared for at Pilgrims Hospice, Margate.

Megan, 25, said: "Dad was only 58-year-old when he was cared for by Pilgrims, he and Ralph were great pals and often shared walks together before he became ill.

"We are very proud to take part in his memory."

Megan, who works as a hotel receptionist at Pegwell Bay Hotel in Ramsgate, has already raised more than £660 for the charity with the support of her family and friends.

She added: “Ralph is full of fun, we are really looking forward to the walk, it’s such a beautiful place and if people don’t know the area very well, it’s really worth a visit.

"A wonderful place for a doggy walk, and I’m looking forward to seeing lots of doggy pals for Ralph to walk with and enjoying the dog events after the walk.

“Dad was cared for at Pilgrims Hospice in November 2016.

"During his time there, he was treated with the most amazing love and care.I cannot thank the wonderful staff enough for everything they did for dad and our family.

"I want to raise as much money as I can for people who need care in the future. The hospice was a happy place for us and dad said it was just like a hotel.

“I really admire the work the nurses and doctors put in day and night to ensure all their patients get the best quality care that they deserve.

"They really made my dad feel at home during his stay there.

"They also welcomed our family with open arms. Ralph visited dad at the hospice every day and even knew in which room to find him.

"He also enjoyed going to visit the other patients, and made friends with volunteers who often had treats for him.”

You can help Megan to raise even more funds for Pilgrims by sponsoring Ralph on Megan’s JustGiving page.

A small donation of just £1 can help make a huge difference to those who need care the most.

“I will be forever grateful to Pilgrims, I thank them from the bottom of my heart.” Megan commented.

If you would like to register and join Paws 4 Pilgrims please visit www.pilgrimshospices/Paws4Pilgrims or contact Karen Kenward, Pilgrims Community Fundraising Manager Karen.kenward@pilgrimshospices.org or call 01843 233 934.