A determined Southport man is getting ready to cycle across England over four days to raise funds to support the growing demand for support at Southport Soup Kitchen.
Andrew Carney, the former chair of Southport Rugby Club and Southport & Birkdale Cricket Club, is keen to raise as much money as he can to support the vital community facility operated by Marie Buchanan and her team from their base on London Street in Southport town centre.
On Tuesday (17th June 2025) he will set out on an ambitious 200-mile Coast to Coast Bike Ride from Carlisle to Berwick on Tweed.
People can support his JustGiving appeal here: Andrew Carney is fundraising for Southport Soup Kitchen
He is trying to do all he can to support Southport Soup Kitchen, which has seen an overwhelming demand for its service since the Covid pandemic.
The facility urgently needs to raise funds to expand the number of ovens on site as well as increase the number of hobs from four to eight, while also providing more cupboard space.
Southport Soup Kitchen was founded in 2002 to provide hot meals and help for those in need in the local area.
In hard times, their message to people is – ‘don’t suffer in silence, we are here to help and support you when you need us’.
Run entirely by Marie Buchanan and her team of dedicated volunteers, Southport Soup Kitchen provides hot meals and drinks as well as food parcels and resources including toiletries and other daily essentials.
With no official government funding it relies on donations from individuals and businesses to continue its work.
Southport Soup Kitchen is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 2pm for its free takeaway hot meal service. On Sundays it also offers a bag of basic provisions to those who require one.
Andrew Carney said: “I am excited to share that I will be participating in the 2025 Coast to Coast Bike Ride, cycling from Carlisle Railway Station to Berwick on Tweed over four days, from Tuesday 17th June 2025 to Friday 20th June 2025.
“This journey will cover over 200 miles of breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain, all in support of the Southport Soup Kitchen.
“Every pedal stroke is fueled by a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of individuals who face daily food challenges.
“The Southport Soup Kitchen plays a crucial role in our community, providing warm meals, essential toiletries, and compassionate support to nearly 200 people each week who are experiencing severe hardships. Your generous donations will empower this vital charity to continue its important work and reach even more individuals in need.
“No contribution is too small; every donation counts towards ensuring that no one in our local community goes hungry. Together, we can make a significant difference!
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Marie Buchanan and the dedicated volunteers at the Southport Soup Kitchen and to Andrew Brown at Stand Up for Southport for their brilliant inspiration and support.
“It’s time for action — let’s come together and surpass our target of £1,000!”
- You can support Andrew’s fundraiser for Southport Soup Kitchen on the JustGiving website here: Andrew Carney is fundraising for Southport Soup Kitchen
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