Salvation Army’s Andy has ‘Peddle’ power

Andy Peddle (right)started his epic journey on 16 May at the Shetland Islands and once in Ireland will walk to 32 Salvation Army Churches (Corps), Lifehouses and charity shops including the one at Meeting House Street in the town.

He arrived in Ballymoney donning his top hat and tails having already clocked up over 190 miles in Ireland since arriving in Larne on 7th August.

He made his way to Ballymoney Church (Corps) to be greeted by those who had gathered to welcome him to the town. So far on his journey Andy has walked a grand total of 1,527 miles having made his way through Scotland into Ireland.

The walk is taking him past every ground in the football league. When he arrives at each Salvation Army base, he will give a talk about the issues of human trafficking and homelessness and will then sing the anthem ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’.

Andy turned 70 during his walkathon and hopes to raise awareness and much-needed funds to help others.

He said: “The Salvation Army has a long history of offering practical support to people who are vulnerable or in need. We are there for 3,500 homeless men, women and families every night.

“The Salvation Army’s saying – ‘Heart to God, hand to man’ has inspired me to take on this challenge. It is a personal pilgrimage too – we are renting out our home and my wife has re-located to Leeds whilst I am raising the money. I have a support van following me on my trek so I can have a break and sleep wherever needed.”

Andy is keen to see people support him by doing their own ‘mini’ sponsored walks of one mile or more – and for them to put pictures of the places they visit on Facebook, Twitter and Flickr.

He added: “I want people over the age of 65 to realise that life does go on and that you can volunteer and get involved. I would love to see as many people as possible support me.”

Major Alan Watters, Divisional Leader of The Salvation Army in Ireland said: “It is fantastic that Andy is taking on this personal pilgrimage to help those truly in need and who have a contribution to offer in our society.”