Over one hundred brave firewalkers, including a local MLA, are psyching themselves up as they prepare to walk barefoot on hot coals to raise vital funds for a local suicide awareness charity this week.

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly is among the courageous ‘soles’ taking part in PIPS Programmes Feet of Flames Firewalk, supported by the Belfast Media Group this Thursday night (October 18).

With each participant set a fundraising target of £100 the firewalk, which takes place at our headquarters at Teach Basil in Hannahstown, will bring in thousands of pounds to help PIPS in their campaign to raise awareness about mental health and suicide across the North.

Gerry Kelly said he has a few pre-walk nerves but he’s more than happy to put his feet in the flames for PIPS.

“PIPS have been very imaginative in their fundraising ideas and this is another great idea,” he said.

“It will be a bit of craic on Thursday night but it is important to remember that it is for a very good cause. A lot of hard work and self-sacrifice has been put in by PIPS to helping individuals and families. It is crucial work, but unfortunately work that is very necessary.”

Robert Mooney, PIPS Volunteer and firewalk organiser, said that he is delighted with the response and after doing PIPS inaugural firewalk last year he had plenty of encouragement for first timers.

“Once you’re across you will wonder what all the fuss was about.”  Spectators are more than welcome to come along and encourage the brave firewalkers on Thursday from 8.15pm at Belfast Media Group, Teach Basil, 2 Hannahstown Hill. Firewalkers should arrive at 7pm.