Well done Camino trekkers! Weldmar’s latest Overseas Challenge participants raise more than £58,000 for hospice care in Dorset
14th October 2026
They battled heavy rain, blisters, and more than 100 kilometres of winding paths along the historic pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago, but our extraordinary group of Weldmar Hospicecare supporters stepped into the historic square at Santiago Cathedral with a sense of overwhelming joy, a sense of achievement, and the knowledge that they had raised an incredible £58,109.55 for hospice care in Dorset.
Every year, fundraisers lace up their boots for our Overseas Challenge; this year it was walking the final stretch of the Camino trail from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain. Over the past year, a group of people who began as strangers, bonded on an emotional journey with many of the group walking in memory of a loved one who received specialist care from Weldmar.
The group was led by Clare Dunster from the charity’s fundraising team, who provided guidance with training, kit, and motivation throughout the months of preparation and during the trek itself.
“When they discovered their total, the team were elated,” says Clare. “They all understand the true value of their fundraising and sponsorship in supporting patients and their families at their most difficult times, each bringing their own personal experiences of the care and support that Weldmar provides. It was exceptional to finish the 100km route and walk into the square together, witnessing the group take in the enormity of the challenge they completed. A huge thank you to every single one of them. We are so proud of their efforts!”
Making a difference
As an independent charity, Weldmar relies on the generosity of our local community for more than 80% of funding services. which are all provided for free. This support allows us to provide care in our Dorchester hospice, in patients’ homes via our Specialist Hospice at Home service, and bereavement support for loved ones. The amount raised by our Camino de Santiago Overseas Challenges will fund the running of the hospice for one week!
@weldmarhospicecare £54,000 raised for hospice care in Dorset by our Camino de Santiago Overseas Challengers! #hospicecare #dorset #charity #fundraising #camino ♬ original sound – Weldmar Hospicecare
Mark told us: “What a great privilege it has been to be part of this extraordinary overseas expedition in aid of Weldmar.
“We arrived as a group of individuals who whilst having spent a little time together on practice walks were in many ways strangers. We began walking and very quickly heard each others’ stories. Stories of love for those we have lost who we wanted to remember and celebrate.
“There were many tears along the way but also much laughter. Oh how we laughed and giggled through our heartache. We completed our journey having found new friends- friends who know the messy bits of our lives and love us more because of them.”
Louise shared how meaningful the challenge was for her: “I arrived home after a week trekking the Camino de Santiago with 12 people who began as strangers. We walked and talked and shared our life stories, such amazing people who have each had to endure such challenges in their lives.
“I have made some beautiful friendships, it was my absolute privilege to walk alongside such incredible people, and I feel an enormous sense of achievement. Its the first time I have travelled on my own and I’m feeling just a little bit proud of myself today.”
Bex said: “It was a journey of self discovery and self reflection. There were some unforgettable experiences with lots of laughs and tears.
What an incredible sense of achievement entering the square at Santiago Cathedral. My greatest thanks to a fantastic bunch of fellow trekkers who made this journey so special. Feeling proud, grateful, and emotional to have completed this amazing adventure. Memories that will stay with me forever!”
To our outstanding Camino trekkers, their generous sponsors, and everyone who followed their journey and cheered them on from home, thank you!
