Chairman’s 66-mile hike from Slieve Gullion to Delamont

Chairman’s 66-mile hike from Slieve Gullion to Delamont

20 March 2019

NEWRY, Mourne and Down Council chairman Mark Murnin is putting his best foot forward to raise money for three charities.

He is dusting down his walking boots for a 66-mile trek over three days in May to raise cash for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, the Harmony Community Trust based at Glebe House near Strangford and Newry Gateway Club.

As the district’s first citizen’s term of office draws to a close, Cllr Murnin is gearing himself up for the charity challenge which starts on May 8 in Slieve Gullion with the chairman making his way to Warrenpoint.

On day two he sets off from Rostrevor and will take in some spectacular scenery as he progresses along the Mourne Way towards the Trassey area near Bryansford.

The final leg of the charity walk starts in Newcastle, with Cllr Murnin making his way to Delamont Country Park outside Killyleagh, via Dundrum, Clough and Downpatrick.

“I wanted to do something active, which would showcase the beauty of the region that I am proud to live in,” said the chairman.

“The Mournes is a haven for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts and our tourism potential is growing annually. I am delighted to be taking on this the three day charity walk challenge and to use this unique opportunity to raise money for the three charities.”

During the charity fundraiser, Cllr Murnin hopes he will be joined by school children, other members of the community and some of his council colleagues along sections of the 66 mile walk and make a £3 donation.

Cllr Murnin said he is delighted to be able to support the three charities, explaining that the

Air Ambulance — which costs £2m a year to run —  operates all year-round and has attended many incidents across the district since its launch.

He said the emergency crew attends some of the most traumatic medical incidents across the country, providing treatment at the scene and airlifting patients to hospital.

The council chairman is also pleased to support Glebe House which promotes community relations and social inclusion. 

Based at a 16-acre wildlife area close to the shores of Strangford Lough, the organisation also provides respite programmes and strives to enable all people to explore divisive barriers and to develop the self-confidence to build mutual respect, tolerance and trust through positive shared experiences.

Details of the opportunities to support the chairman’s walk are being sent to all schools and walking groups across the district. For more information about the walk and details of how to register to take part in the event, visit www.nmandd.org. 

Pre-registration is also available by contacting at Sheila.kieran@nmandd.org or telephone 028 3031 3141. Walkers can also register on either day of the event.