Renfrewshire Council has formally congratulated a Paisley man who has shown “incredible strength and determination” on his 3,000-mile ‘Tartan Trek’ across the United States.
Craig Ferguson is in the final month of his walk from Los Angeles to Boston in time for Scotland’s opening match against Haiti at the World Cup – raising money for Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) along the way.
Councillor Stephen Burns, an SNP representative for Paisley Southwest, received the unanimous support of his fellow elected members as they recognised the 22-year-old’s efforts at Thursday’s full council meeting.
His motion, seconded by ward and party colleague Provost Lorraine Cameron, commended Craig and wished him success as he closes in on the finish line.
Councillor Burns said: “I would like to congratulate Craig on his journey – the 3,000-mile walk for Scottish Action for Mental Health.
“It’s an outstanding achievement and he has shown incredible strength and determination.
“You can see the effort across social media, the work Craig is putting in to help others with their mental health.
“It’s absolutely brilliant work and I commend him.”
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Craig has raised more than £155,000 for the charity so far having set a target of £1 million for his mammoth mission.
The quest follows his previous endurance challenge when he walked from Glasgow to Munich, Germany, to align with Euro 2024 in aid of men’s mental health.
The kilted Scotsman set off from Santa Monica Pier in late February and reached the 1,500-mile mark in Kansas two months later, documenting his journey as he goes.
Provost Cameron added: “Obviously I am delighted to second the motion, recognising the remarkable achievement of Craig Ferguson because it is quite remarkable.
“We don’t know anyone else who has taken on anything remotely as challenging as this and that walk across the US has inspired people, both here in Renfrewshire and far beyond that.
“He has undertaken this extraordinary challenge not for personal recognition but to shine a light on the mental health struggles that affect so many people and families every single day.”
Craig has been spurred on by his friend Matthew Allan, who has been on the road in a support vehicle – providing food, water, rest and encouragement when needed.
He has also received public backing from a list of high-profile figures, including football great Kenny Dalglish, tennis star Jamie Murray and pop sensation Lewis Capaldi.
Touching on the reasons for his cause on his fundraising page, he explained: “Mental health struggles are part of life, especially for young men, yet so many still feel shame about asking for help.
“Through the challenges I take on, I want to show people they are not alone – and that even small acts can make a meaningful difference.
Anyone who would like to support Craig’s ‘Tartan Trek’ or follow his progress can do so at thetartantrek.co .u
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