Mayor backs Ben’s Miles for Meals trek from Larne to Old Trafford

Pictured is Mayor Councillor William McCaughey along with Ben Dickinson.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim joined Ben Dickinson as the inspirational 10-year-old continued his 10-day walk from Larne to Manchester to raise vital funds for food poverty charity, FareShare.

The big-hearted youngster set off from Inver Park on Thursday, joined by supporters including members of Larne FC, and will complete his challenge when he reaches Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United.

FareShare collects surplus food from multiple industries and redistributes it to numerous charities and foodbanks in Northern Ireland, and across the rest of the UK, tackling hunger in the most vulnerable communities. United hero Marcus Rashford is an ambassador for the charity.

Ben is hoping to raise enough money to fund 50,000 meals for the charity and change lives across the UK.

Mayor Councillor William McCaughey said:

“I was honoured to meet Ben and pass on the best wishes of the people of Mid and East Antrim, who are all right behind him.

“Ben is already a role model, despite his tender years, and his care and compassion for others is admirable and inspiring.

“I look forward to welcoming Ben and his family to my parlour on his return to hear all about his fundraising efforts.”

For more information on how to support Ben’s Miles for Meals, visit www.bensmilesformeals.com or to donate £10 towards the FareShare charity, text BEN to 70490.

Speaking ahead of his first steps on Thursday morning, Ben said:

“Since launching Ben’s Mile for Meals, the support I’ve received from friends, family, Greenisland FC teammates, local businesses, and famous faces, has been brilliant.

“I’m already well on course to reach my target of 50,000 meals but hope my walk to Old Trafford will get me over that line.

“I just can’t wait to get started now and enjoy the next ten days!”