Cormack helps raise fab £5,000
Lourdes charity benefits
A Paisley man helped raised £ 5,000 for a charity that transports people from the town to Lourdes.
Cormack Smith, 56, from the south end, was part of a group of nine who took part in the London Royal Parks Half Marathon.
He ran in aid of Across to Lourdes by Jumbulance, a charity that helps the sick, disabled and elderly go to the Marian shrine in France.
Several Jumbulances, which are special kingsized vehicles kitted out with beds, loos and equipment for the sick, have left from Paisley’s St Mirin’s Cathedral in the past few years, most recently in September.
Cormack, a care worker who is a volunteer helper on the Jumbulances, which are put on the road by the Across charity, said he was delighted to be able to help contribute to funds at the run.
“It was absolutely fantastic,” he said.
“There were nine of us running and I was the only one in our group from Scotland, which was great.
“It was a good cause, and I’m more than happy with the £5,000 we’ve raised.”
It was 40 years ago that the idea for Jumbulances was conceived as a way of getting people to Lourdes in the hope of cure or comfort but who were unable to fly.
The idea was warmly embraced by Roman Catholics in Paisley and many trips have been made over the years to Lourdes from the town by Jumbulance.
Many of the trips have been organised in large part by Cormack, although he refuses to take any credit.
“It’s not about me, it’s about other people,” he said.
“I’m supported by my lovely wife Lorraine and my family and others.”
People can still donate by visiting Cormack’s JustGiving page on Facebook or by calling Across direct on 020 354 21800.
To find our more about Across and jumbulances visit https://www.across. org.uk/