Veterans complete 18-mile charity march from Templepatrick to Ballymena raising £4,000 for support group

Member of Veterans Support Group Ballymena setting off on their fundraising 18-mile march from Templepatrick to Ballymena in the darkness of early morning

In the early hours of Saturday 1 November, a determined group of military veterans and supporters set off from Templepatrick roundabout on an arduous 18-mile sponsored march to Ballymena Services Club, raising an estimated £4,000 for the Veterans Support Group Ballymena (VSGB).

The gruelling challenge was the idea of Stephen Johnston, a veteran with 22 years of military service, who wanted to create a unique fundraising event to support fellow veterans.

“I have fundraised for many other military charities in recent years and was looking for a new challenge,” Stephen explained.

“Being a member of the Veteran Support Group Ballymena, I knew firsthand the great work being done by the group and decided to organise this 18-mile march.”

Stopping for a well-earned breather and a hot cuppa

Johnston was joined by 25 marchers, including other members of the VSGB and supporters, with some completing the entire route and others joining along the way.

Among the participants was 78-year-old Ruby Rock, who walked the full distance despite challenging conditions.

“It was a bit wet to begin with, but walking was much better once it dried up a bit,” Ruby said.

“My legs and hips got a bit tired around the halfway point and I did think about getting into one of the safety cars but decided to push on through to finish the course.”

Almost home: Veterans arriving in Ballymena at the end of their 18-mile fundraising trek

March organiser Stephen Johnston (forefront) as the veterans group arrive in Ballymena

After completing the march, Ruby treated herself to “a hot bath, two paracetamol and an hour’s sleep” — before heading straight to her evening shift as a bar steward at the Services Club.

Also taking part was Philip “Barney” Gillespie, a military veteran who lost his right leg in an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2006.

“I felt it was important to show support to the marchers and do my bit for this sponsored walk helping to raise funds for a very good cause,” Barney said.

The group was piped home to the finish line by Duane Johnston, who also completed the full course. Their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved Ulster fry, served as part of the VSGB’s monthly veterans’ breakfast at the Services Club.

Independent Councillor Lawrie Philpott, Chairman of VSGB, pictured with Mark McMahon, committee member during the well earned breakfast at the Services Club in Ballymena

Independent Councillor Lawrie Philpott, Chairperson of the VSGB, praised the dedication and determination shown by all involved.

“This was a very difficult physical and mental challenge by all participants,” he said.

“We are extremely thankful to Stephen for organising this activity and to everyone that completed this march to raise much needed funds for the VSGB.”

Cllr Philpott continued, “I am proud to represent this amazing group, Veteran’s Support Group Ballymena (VSGB). We are also overwhelmed by the support from the people of Ballymena and across Northern Ireland.

“The veteran community have an important place in society and still have plenty to offer. If you are a veteran and looking a likeminded group to connect, look no further than the VSGB (vsgb.co.uk).”

The Veterans Support Group Ballymena, established in January 2022, provides a range of services, support, and social activities for veterans across Ballymena and the surrounding area.

More information about the group can be found at www.vsgb.co.uk.