These boots are made for walking and that’s just what they’ll do!
Parishioners of St Patrick’s & St John’s United Parish of Whitehead & Islandmagee, Diocese of Connor, walked enough miles between January 1st and March 17th to complete two full circuits of Ireland!
Late last year, the select vestry decided it would be a good idea to challenge parishioners and friends to join in a virtual sponsored walk around the island, starting on New Year’s Day 2021 and finishing on St Patrick’s Day.
The main objective was to encourage people to get out and exercise, stay fit and aid positive mental health. The walk also raised money for church funds.
A register was established on the parish Facebook page so people could send in their weekly miles tally, and once a week the total miles were updated, alongside a map of Ireland which indicated how far parishioners had got on the walk, keeping everyone involved.
The event proved a great success. Not only were sufficient miles collectively recorded to complete one circuit of Ireland – equivalent to 1,970 miles – but by St Patrick’s Day, parishioners were just 6.5 miles short of completing a second circuit.
A quick post was put up on Facebook and within an hour the parish had achieved its target and some more… The grand total of miles walked came to a whopping 4,310!
Well done to all who took part and supported this fun effort.