Local Veteran recognised for charity efforts
September 9, 2020
The Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council held a special reception today to praise and recognise the recent achievements of local Veteran Mark Clougherty.
The Lisburn man who served as a Veteran for 12 years, has recently undertaken a World Record challenge to conquer Ireland by bike. He is aiming to complete a 595km cycle, from Mizen Head to Malin Head, on a hand bike in 4 days. He is raising funds for four charities that are very close to his heart; Cancer Research UK, Help For Heroes, Shrapnel and SPORTS (a local Northern Ireland mental health charity).
The Mayor, Councillor Hon Nicholas Trimble, said:
“On behalf of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, I am delighted to present Mark with a sponsorship cheque, in recognition of his hard work and tremendous charity efforts. It was a pleasure to meet Mark and his wife today and to hear more about his upcoming challenge and fundraising efforts.
"Having faced extremely difficult times, Mark is using sport to aid his recovery and to raise funds for four worthwhile charities. I’m extremely proud of Mark’s determination and will-power; it is very inspiring and encouraging to others.
"As a council, we are fully committed to supporting the local Armed Forces community through our Armed Forces Covenant. Today is a representation of our continued support to ensure that Armed Forces personnel and their families living in the Lisburn Castlereagh area feel included and supported within the local community. A copy of our Armed Services Covenant is on permanent display at Lagan Valley Island."
Mark Clougherty said: “I am very grateful for the council’s support and recognition. This challenge is extremely important to me. I want to prove to other people who are going through similar difficulties that no matter how bad things are, sport can be a great tool in moving forward.
"The four charities that I am fundraising for, hold a very special place in my heart and I know how much the funds will help continue the delivery of their amazing services to those in need.”
