Reverend revs up for challenge
Published 25 May 2012 09:30
A BURGH reverend will be driving the entire British coastline in his classic Triumph Spitfire sports car to raise vital funds for the country's war veterans.
Pastor Brian Mulraine, of Dumbarton Baptist Church, will take on the 4,000 mile challenge for the veteran's charity Erskine.
The trip also marks the 50th anniversary of his iconic car.
Brian will set off on his epic journey from The Erskine Home, Bishopton, on Tuesday at 10am.
He aims to cross the finish line at the home on Friday June 8.
Brian said: "Having owned my cherished Triumph Spitfire for just over a year, I'm always itching to find a reason to get it out of the garage, other than just to enjoy the occasional short run.
"As 2012 turned and the 50th anniversary of the Triumph Spitfire, I thought what can I do that would possibly benefit others as well as get me out on the open road?
"It was then I remembered meeting a Community Fundraiser from the veterans' charity Erskine at a local school Remembrance Assembly and reason enough just seemed to open up before me.
" I'll take on driving round the British coastline, a round trip of 4,000 mile, which I hope to do in approximately 10-12 days."
The mammoth adventure ties in with the charity's Erskine Week, which runs between June 1 and 8, and aims to raise awareness of the charity throughout Scotland.
This week, in preparation for his challenge, Brian showed off his classic car to ex-RAF and Erskine veteran Peter Wilson on a visit to the charity's Bishopton Estate.
Brian, who is financing the challenge himself, will be accommodated by his church colleagues around the UK throughout his challenge.
Susan Bradley, Erskine fundraiser, added: "This is a marvellous challenge that Brian is undertaking in aid of our veterans at Erskine. Not only is he raising awareness of Erskine throughout the UK during Erskine Week, but he will be raising vital funds to ensure we can deliver the best standard of care for our ex-Service men and women across Scotland.
"All the residents and staff are supporting his challenge and can't wait to see him cross the finish line on June 8."
To support Brian's fundraising, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/bmfundraiser.
This article appeared in Dumbarton & Vale of Leven Reporter 25 May 12
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