Portsmouth Salvation Army volunteer to walk 300 miles in support of Australian firefighters
IN the wake of the devastating bushfires in Australia, a humble volunteer is looking to do his bit for the firefighters who have battled the fierce blazes.
Ian Urmston, who runs The Salvation Army church and community centre in Albert Road, Southsea, is walking almost 300 miles for the brave volunteer firefighters in the Australian state of Victoria.
Setting off on Thursday, March 5, Ian will be trekking an average of 32 miles per walk over the next two months, visiting Salvation Army halls along the way.
His walks will take him across Hampshire, Dorset and Sussex, visiting Alton, Petersfield and Swanage, among other places.
Ian said: ‘From December onwards, I’d been seeing, hearing and reading news reports – as we all did I’m sure, about the bushfires sweeping across Australia and the devastating effect they’ve had on the people and wildlife of the country. It had a profound effect on me.
‘I was impressed by the fact that the people who were on the frontline fighting the bushfires in Victoria – the County Fire Authority, were mostly volunteers.
‘This struck a chord with me and this is why I have decided to fundraise to support those brave and selfless souls who risked their lives to save others.’
Ian will be carrying a donation bucket and accepting donations for the Victoria County Fire Authority on his walks.
The final leg of his journey won’t take place until Friday, May 1, where he will walk from Fordingbridge to Hedge End and on to Fareham for the big finish.
The Salvation Army in Southsea provides Sunday worship, a nursery and parent and toddler group.
It also runs the Lighthouse Cafe in Albert Road.