Castledaly activist reaches Hungary on hitchhike from Westmeath to West Bank

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Castledaly activist Brian Martin has travelled over 2,400km from his native Westmeath to Hungary on his hitchhike fundraiser to the West Bank.

The 27-year-old set out on Monday (September 15) to hitchhike from Westmeath to the border of Palestine, the West Bank, in aid of the Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF).

First he travelled to London where he remained for a number of weeks partaking in Palestine protests and demonstrations across the city, and even supporting Kneecap's Mo Chara (real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh) during his court hearing at Woolwich Crown Court.

Brian left London on November 5, travelling onwards to Kent, then to Dover where he boarded the ferry to France with the help of DJ Wild West.

"Freight drivers didn't want to bring me due to their company policies," Brian said.

"I hitched the ferry crossing to the sound of celebratory hardcore trumpets thanks to DJ Wild West who was travelling to Belgium for a gig."

After reaching Belgium on November 10, the Castledaly man has passed through Dresden, Berlin, and Leipzig in Germany, Prague, the capital city of Czech Republic, and has now arrived in Hungary on Sunday, November 16.

Throughout his journey, Brian has been outspoken about the ongoing boycotts of companies which have continued to support Israel, and offering alternatives. Those mentioned include Coca Cola, Lidl, Starbucks, and McDonalds.

He has also offered frugal travel tips for others interested in hitchhiking, noting that many service stations will have free places to refill water, recharge devices, and even offer free food that they might be throwing out.

Brian extended his thanks to all those who have supported him along the way, encouraging those following along to donate.

To date, the PCRF fundraiser has hit over €37,510 (US $43,510) with contributions from Brian's fundraising and various others.