Wareham's Horse and Groom landlady swaps beer pumps for hiking boots in charity trek for Julia’s House
Caroline Pittard, the much-loved landlady of The Horse and Groom in Wareham, is stepping out from behind the bar and into the wild — quite literally. Later this year, she’ll be taking on a gruelling five-day trek through Morocco’s rugged Saghro Mountains, all in aid of the children’s hospice Julia’s House.
'True test of endurance'
Local business owner of Wareham’s award winning pub, Caroline is determined to raise £1,800 for the Dorset-based charity, which provides specialist care and support for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, as well as their families.
“This trek won’t be easy — it’s a true test of endurance,” Caroline explains. “But it’s nothing compared to the challenges the families Julia’s House supports face every day.”
The challenge will see her navigating through the rugged Saghro Mountains in Morocco and camping under the stars. It’s a world away from the cosy snug of The Horse and Groom — but Caroline is ready for the adventure.
Julia's House - 'a lifeline'
Julia’s House is more than just a hospice. It’s a lifeline — offering not just medical care, but emotional and practical support, respite for exhausted parents, and a safe, nurturing place for families to spend precious time together. But this vital service costs £10 million a year to run, with just 8% of that coming from government funding. The rest relies on the generosity of supporters like Caroline and her donors.
“Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly towards helping families in crisis,” she says. “Your support means these families don’t have to face their journey alone.”
How to donate to the Horse and Groom Landlady Fundraiser
Caroline’s trek will take place from the 1st-9th November, with every step fuelled by the kindness of her community. You can support her fundraising campaign via her JustGiving page: justgiving.com/page/caroline-pittard-2
So if you pop into The Horse and Groom in the coming weeks, don’t just raise a glass to Caroline — help her reach that £1,800 target, and raise hope for the children and families who need it most.
