Galashiels local legend and music promotor Bill Jeffrey (60), completed his marathon charity fundraising walk of the entire Southern Upland Way on on Sunday 25th August, cheered on by local supporters and a great welcome from the Salmon Inn from whom he downed a much needed pint and enjoyed a delicious buffet with his supporters.
“Christmas is a time for giving and giving magic to our kids” said Bill.
Bill felt the town’s Christmas Lights were in much need of rejuvenation and wanted to bring some additional cheer this year to make Galashiels the ‘Pride of the Borders’.
Bill it has to be said is not a youngster, but he has a determined spirit, and when he gets an idea into his head that something should be done, he doesn’t sit on his backside but makes things happen.
The idea of walking the Southern Upland Way, coast to coast, 214 miles of very remote and in places, extremely challenging walking conditions, even for the experienced walker, seemed like the perfect challenge to engage local businesses, friends and any anyone else who might be interested in joining the cause.
Through his social media pages on Facebook and Twitter, Bill set himself the task to raise money to brighten up his beloved Galashiels this Christmas, not for himself, but for everyone in the historic Borders town.
Training in the early hours of the morning often whilst the residents slept comfortably in their beds, before he began his shift work at a local supermarket, Bill began pounding the streets and nearby hills, overcoming pain, anxiety and genuine fear. Could he really do this?
Well yes he could, over a few weeks when he could manage the time off work, Bill aided and supported by his lifelong friend, another Bill, Bill Russell, who drove, picked up and towed the caravan where needed, he took on atrocious weather, challenging set-backs and frequent back pain, but never once thought of giving up.
Bill is no quitter, and if you would like to help Bill raise even more for his heart-felt town’s Christmas Lights, please visit his Funding Page and add a few quid. It will be so appreciated by Bill and the town.
You can still help Bill raise more by contributing or contacting him at the links below.