McGuckin family and Autocare Car Wash raised £9,775.51 for ALPS in memory of Martin McGuckin
The McGuckin family and Autocare Car Wash in Magherafelt have raised an incredible £9,775.51 through a charity car wash in support of ALPS (All Lives Are Precious), a charity dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health awareness and support for individuals and families affected by suicide.
The event was organised in memory of Martin McGuckin, who sadly passed away through suicide in July 2025.
For more than 30 years, Martin owned and operated a car wash and was well known throughout the local community for his hard work, kindness and dedication. Holding a charity car wash in his memory was a fitting tribute to a man who touched the lives of so many people.
The event, which took place on July 26, attracted tremendous support from local businesses, volunteers, families and members of the wider community, all coming together to honour Martin's memory while raising awareness of the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.
The remarkable total of £9,775.51 will help ALPS continue its vital work supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties and families impacted by suicide.
A spokesperson for the McGuckin family said: "This cause is very close to our hearts following the loss of Martin. We wanted to celebrate his life in a way that reflected who he was and the work he dedicated so many years to. The support we received from the community was overwhelming, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered and attended. Knowing that these funds will help others facing difficult times makes this tribute to Martin even more meaningful."
ALPS expressed its sincere gratitude to the McGuckin family, Autocare Car Wash and everyone who contributed to the event.
A representative from ALPS said: "We are deeply grateful for the incredible generosity shown through this fundraiser. Not only has it raised vital funds for our services, but it has also helped open important conversations around mental health and suicide prevention. Martin's legacy will continue to make a positive difference to the lives of many people through the support generated by this event."
The success of the charity car wash demonstrates the strength of community spirit and the power of people coming together to support an important cause while remembering a much-loved local man.