Next month, Alan Murray will walk nine miles while wearing a number nine Mids top – the same one worn by his late brother Gary during a record breaking football season.
Gary Murray passed away suddenly last month, sending shockwaves through Lockerbie and the football community.
And Alan wants to raise as much money as possible for men’s mental health services locally and Mids youth development.
Speaking this week, he said: “In the 1993/94 season Gary scored 61 goals while wearing the number nine shirt.
“I wanted to do something to raise money for the mental health services because that’s something Gary suffered with in recent months.
“Even if the money we raise helped just one person, one family, it will be worth it.”
Gary was a prolific player for Mids in the 90s and also served as a committee member.
Latterly he held a coaching position, bringing on the talents of young players.
Alan said: “He loved Mids and coaching so it made sense to do it for them too.”
So far almost 20 friends and family have volunteered to join Alan in his fundraising challenge and sponsorship sheets have been placed around the town, such as in The Brig and Tesco, and even in Dumfries hospital.
Explaining how things will work on the day, Alan said: “I’ve worked out a route leaving from Mids and going right round the town.
“I’m planning to set everyone off at five minute intervals so we can follow social distancing and keep everyone safe.
“Even my dad wants to take part, he’s 72 so might not manage the whole lot but he wants to do it.”
The walkers will leave from King Edward Park at 9.30 am on Sunday October 4 and it is expected to take around two and a half hours to complete.
To donate online, visit: www.gofundme.com and search for ˜Gary Murray”.
