Miles with meaning: From personal purpose to public impact
Friday 13 March 2026
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford hosted a special reception in recognition of local man Darren Tweed’s extraordinary commitment to fundraising.
Over recent years, Darren has undertaken a series of remarkable physical challenges to raise vital funds for charities supporting children and young people with additional needs and their families.
His most recent achievement saw him complete an incredible 100km run on Sunday 1 March in aid of WAVES (Welcome. Accept. Value. Enjoy. Shine), Ballymena. This local community-led organisation helps children with additional needs feel accepted and included in civic life while also providing much needed support to their parents.
Darren and his wife, Amber, are the proud parents to two children with additional needs. His fundraising efforts are deeply personal and rooted in lived experience, inspiring widespread admiration across the community.
In 2025, to mark World Down’s Syndrome Day, Darren undertook an extraordinary challenge – to run 21 kilometres for three consecutive days. This combined 63-kilometre run was to raise funds for a local Down Syndrome support group.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said “It is a true privilege to formally acknowledge Darren’s efforts and the meaningful difference he has made. His determination, compassion, and resilience are truly inspiring.
“Through immense physical endurance and personal commitment, he has raised both vital funds and awareness for organisations that make a meaningful difference to families across Ballymena.”
Darren’s story is one of strength, perseverance and community spirit – a powerful reminder of the powerful difference one individual can make.