A COUNCILLOR is taking on a mammoth walking challenge to help raise vital funds for Palestinians.

Barrow Borough Councillor Iain Mooney is walking 100km throughout the month of March to fundraise for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees.

The Furness General Hospital nurse raised more than £500 after taking on the Tour de Furness for Mind in Furness last year – and is hoping to receive the same support in his latest charity challenge.

He said: “I’m starting off the 100km challenge with a week of council ward walking and hospital ward working.

“A big thank you to all who have already donated to the cause.

“I'm taking on the 100km in March challenge for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) to help raise vital funds for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees.

“The majority of Palestinians are denied access to basic medical needs in occupied territories and face terror every day.

“For 40 years, MAP have been supporting the health & dignity of those living under occupation, providing healthcare for Palestinians in the West Bank.

“Last year I managed to raise an amazing £525 for Mind in Furness taking on the Tour de Furness. This year I am looking to walk around Furness to raise vital funds for MAP.

“Any support and donations very welcome on the link below”

The challenge is to cover the distance of 100km in 31 days while fundraising for Palestinian health and dignity.

MAP's vision is a future where all Palestinians can access an effective, sustainable and locally-led system of healthcare, and the full realisation of their rights to health and dignity.

Through MAP’s programmes in the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, and Lebanon, the team works with trusted and experienced local partners to achieve this vision.

The programmes, designed and delivered by Palestinians, provides access to essential health services and build local knowledge and skills to address Palestinian health problems.

If you would like to make a donation towards Cllr Mooney’s charity challenge, visit the fundraising page https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/iain-mooney1