Dads on a mission stop off in Annandale

TWO grieving fathers passed through Annandale this week on their journey to Lands End, to raise funds for suicide prevention.

John Bell and Graham Lynk began their journey from John O’ Groats on April 17, aiming to walk 960 miles in 48 days all to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.

The duo, who have each lost a son, are walking side by side, carrying a shared message that no one should feel alone.Throughout the journey, John will carry a 15kg bathtub the full distance, representing the invisible weight carried by those living with mental health struggles, grief, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.

The bathtub carries names and memories of loved ones lost, alongside a memorial flag.

John is a bereaved father and suicide survivor who has committed his life to supporting others through action, community, and lived experience. He is walking dressed as Deadpool in honour of his son, Jake.

Graham also lost his son, Sean, and since then has carried out powerful and inspiring work in suicide prevention.

The pair entered the region on Wednesday on the Elvanfoot to Lockerbie leg of their journey, passing through Johnstonebridge, and Beattock.

Yesterday John and Graham set off from Lockerbie at 6 am, making their way through Kirtlebridge, Ecclefechan and Gretna before crossing the border and heading towards Carlisle.

As they approached the border, John said: “To the people of Scotland: you have been absolutely amazing, thank you so much. I’m looking forward to coming back and seeing more of this beautiful country.

“As we break through to England today, I want to leave you with one last thing: when you can’t see the sunshine, be the sunshine. Thank you everybody for all your support, you are absolutely amazing.”

To donate to the fundraiser visit Justgiving.com and search: ‘John Bell’s fundraiser for Walking 4 Hope’.