Diocesan News
10th Annual Sheep’s Head Hike in Cork, Cloyne and Ross for Christian Aid
The first weekend in September signifies a lot, the All–Ireland final, the kids are back at school, Electric Picnic and the start of autumn. But for one part of the world, just off the west coast of Ireland in County Cork, Kilcrohane to be exact, it means only one thing, Christian Aid Ireland’s Sheep’s Head Hike.
For the last ten years, this has been a staple in Christian Aid’s calendar, creating awareness and fundraising for those in great need. Rain, hail or shine, the walk never fails to deliver. On Saturday, 1st September, over 200 walkers from all over the county and beyond took part.
Before heading off, the local community of St. James Church in Durras, welcomed trekkers with tea and coffee before Canon Paul Willoughby, the local rector, officially set everyone on their way.
There were clear skies and sunny weather this year with views for days. This year the hikers raised on the day over €4,500, with more donations still coming in. The money raised goes towards projects in the developing world and helps those in most need to break the cycle of poverty. By empowering people and villages to create better lives for themselves and standing together as one community, a real difference is being made.
An unexpected last hint of summer arrived at the weekend in Cork leading to a few sunburnt but happy faces after the hike, as everyone arrived back to Kilcrohane for a well–earned BBQ.
A thank you from Christian Aid:
‘Christian Aid Ireland can’t thank everyone enough for all their support of the hike on the day itself and in the time leading up to the event. We had 23 hike leaders this year from all around the locality. A big thanks to James O’Mahoney and the Sheep’s Head Way Committee. The Gourmet Grill for the food on the day, especially Ulla and Kurt Zepperzitz. All the volunteers who assisted with registration, thanks to Jim, Denis and Andrew for driving the buses from Bantry and bringing more walkers to the peninsula. Thanks to the Red Cross and to all the photographers who joined us. We captured some amazing shots of everyone so keep your eyes peeled for these. A special thanks to the local community of Kilcrohane and Durrus who’s support we could not do without.
‘Andrew Coleman, Christian Aid’s representative in Cork, would like to also thank David Hayward, Caroline Coleman and Margaret Skuce.
‘See you all again next year for the 11th annual Sheep’s Head hike on the 7th September 2019.’
Diocesan Media & Information Technology Officer
087 7055 989
Ms Denise Stobart
media@corkchurchofireland.com