Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Anfield trek friends never walked alone
Stadium destination
A pair of Coatbridge pals who trekked over 200 miles to Liverpool have raised more than £2800 for good causes.
Brian Ellis and John-Paul Cope undertook the gruelling challenge over a one week period earlier this month and walked for 14 hours each day, beginning at 6am.
The money raised by Brian will be donated to both Alzheimer Scotland whilst John- Paul’s contribution will be to the Beatson Cancer Charity.
Brian, 28, revealed how the mammoth task was made just that wee bit easier for him each day.
He said: “We walked about 30 miles a day and when we arrived at each hotel I had a letter of support from a member of my family.
“I got ones from my fiancee, mum and sister.
“They all sent photos and wee quotes in their letters on different nights throughout the trip which I wasn’t expecting.
“It’s things like that which keep you going.”
He continued: “On our first night when we checked into the hotel at Abington, both our partners were there waiting on us.
“The first day was the hardest and to see them at the end of it was amazing.”
Unknown to the intrepid trekkers, John-Paul’s family had arranged for staff from Liverpool FC to welcome them into the club’s famous Anfield stadium upon their arrival in the city.
Brian continued: “It was just complete joy when we turned the corner and saw the stadium there.
“The mix of the relief on a personal level as well as knowing the difference we can make to peoples’ lives with our contribution is great.
“We initially misjudged how much we needed to take so lightened our bags slightly.
“This was the hardest thing we’ve ever done but it was worth every minute to be able to look back and know you’ve experienced that.”
The money raised by Brian and John-Paul will be donated to both Alzheimer Scotland and the Beatson Cancer Charity.