Video – United Ireland 10k and family walk a huge success

‘We think people deserve to have their say. We weren't consulted when the Border was being drawn up in Whitehall by people who had never stood in Annaghad or Rassan or Ballinacarry’

THE United Ireland 10k and Family Walk on Sunday morning has been hailed as a huge success by the organisers of an event that attracted over a hundred participants and supporters.

Scores of people took part in the 10k which saw the fastest runner, local Stephen Quinn, home in a time of 39 minutes and 55 seconds; fastest female was Gemma McGourty in 46 minutes and 43 seconds.

Another 30 people took part in the 2k Family Walk, including many children.

Group chairperson Emma McArdle said she was delighted with the event:

"It was fantastic to see so many people taking part today.  The weather wasn't great at all so I was worried first thing this morning looking out the window but the great turn out demonstrates that there is a local demand for the campaign we are running.

"I want to thank everyone who travelled to South Armagh/North Louth to be with us and to both Culloville GFC and Naomh Malachi Shelagh for the use of their premises.

"These runners and walkers crossed the Border a number of times over the course of this morning's route although they probably didn't even realise it.  The Border means nothing to the people who live here, save the inconvenience it causes to everyday life.

"We are holding a people’s referendum on 25 May asking people: 'Should Ireland be Reunited?' We think people deserve to have their say. We weren't consulted when the Border was being drawn up in Whitehall by people who had never stood in Annaghad or Rassan or Ballinacarry. It's time the people's voice was heard."