Lifelong football supporters walking from Manchester to Glasgow to raise funds for mental health charities
Two young devoted Manchester City and Glasgow Celtic supporters are getting ready for a 215 mile plus walk from Manchester to Glasgow on Monday to raise funds for mental health charities.
Odhran Madden and Seamus Groogan have named the event 'Etihad to Celtic Park Charity Walk' and are well on the way to reaching their £9,000 target which they say will be divided between S.T.E.P.S and Beacon Counselling Trust.
The 24-year-olds aim to complete the walk over nine days between June 8 and 16.
Odhran, from Portglenone, said they are both lifelong supporters of the clubs and have seen firsthand how football can bring people together, create belonging, and provide comfort during difficult times.
"For many, football is more than a game, it’s an escape, a routine, and a lifeline for mental health. That connection is what inspired us to link this challenge to the sport we love,” he explained.
The friends stressed it is not a symbolic challenge, but a genuine test of physical and mental endurance.
"Each day we’ll walk between 13 and 31 miles, pushing ourselves to raise money and awareness for two mental health charities that are close to our hearts: S.T.E.P.S and Beacon Counselling Trust,” explained Seamus, who lives in Maghera.
"Our aim is to raise £5,000, with £2,500 going to each charity, to help fund vital mental health support and suicide-prevention services. Mental health affects everyone, and too many people suffer in silence. This walk is our way of starting conversations, remembering those we’ve lost, and supporting those who are still fighting.”
Both have already been pounding the roads each putting in more than a 100 miles per month in preparation for the walk.
Odhran said anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide can have their name printed on their walking tops.
"Those names will be carried with us for every mile of the journey, ensuring they are remembered and honoured,” he said.
Seamus added that they would like to thank everyone who has donated and shown their support.
The friends have set up a GoFundMe page here for anyone who who like to contribute or get in touch with them.