Councillors to do battle on the seas in latest contest

Councillors to do battle on the seas in latest contest

14 September 2016

ROWALLANE councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews are taking to the water this weekend in their latest charity fundraiser.

The intrepid duo, who went toe-to-toe with each other in the boxing ring two years ago, head-to-head in a charity golf tournament at Bright Golf Club and also took part in an eating challenge, are now going to race each other in skiffs to raise money for Downpatrick charity, Children and Parents and Autism (CAAPA) and the RNLI.

The politicians, who are not afraid to stick their oar in during heavy weight political debates, are looking forward to their latest charity challenge this Sunday afternoon in aid of both organisations which will take place at Killyleagh Yacht Club.

The duo will each be recruiting three other people to row alongside them. Councillor Walker will be joined by Stormont Economy Minister Simon Hamilton and his Newry, Mourne and Down Council colleagues, Glyn Hanna and Henry Reilly.

Councillor Andrews is keeping his cards close to his chest and has not yet revealed who will be joining him in the charity challenge, but is confident of tasting victory.

“This will be our third charity event and we are both looking forward to it,” said councillor Walker. “Terry and I have raised money for worthy causes in the past and are delighted to be able to help CAAPA and the RNLI this year. CAAPA, which caters for children and young adults with autism, does a fantastic job in the community.”

Councillor Andrews admitted he is hoping for calm conditions on the day of the event and while charity is the name of the game, he wants to beat his rival.

“We had great craic during our previous fundraisers and this one won’t be any different. We are of course hoping for good weather as it will make the rowing a little easier. Billy and I have never rowed before so it is going to be a very interesting challenge,” he added.

Other rowing teams will be taking to this water this Sunday, with the Rowallane councillors encouraging people to make their way to Killyleagh to watch the event and help raise money for the two charities.

The charity challenge is expected to get underway around 3pm to coincide with high tide.