Friends of the Glens New Year message of hope

THE annual Friends of the Glens New Year’s Day Walk returned in uplifting style for 2026, with hundreds of walkers taking to the Mullaghcarn Trail in Gortin Glen Forest Park to welcome the year ahead. But among the many boots on the trail, one story stood out as a powerful reminder of resilience, generosity and the gift of life.

Sean Harpur, a leading member of the Friends of the Glens group and a passionate advocate for Gortin Glen Forest Park, joined this year’s trek just months after donating a kidney to his sister - proving that life after organ donation does not stop, but continues with purpose and possibility.

The New Year’s Day walk, organised annually by Friends of the Glens, normally takes place at Bessy Bell between Omagh and Newtownstewart but it was felt the new location could accommodate more people and offer participants the chance to connect with the natural beauty, folklore and heritage of Mullaghcarn Mountain, which rises to 542 metres in the heart of the Sperrins. This year’s event drew walkers of all ages to the scenic and moderately challenging trail, taking in panoramic views, forest paths and the striking ‘Guardian of the Glens’ oak sculpture, part of the Sperrin Sculpture Trail.

For Sean, the climb held special meaning. Many believed he might not be able to take part this year after undergoing major surgery in June to donate his right kidney to his sister Ann (McGrath). But almost seven months to the day, Sean was back on the mountain with his Friends of the Glens colleagues, continuing a tradition close to his heart.

“I was delighted to be in good enough form to make the walk,” Sean said. “I donated my kidney back in June and recovery is continuing, steady but positive. I’m proof that organ donation doesn’t change your life - it gives life. I would encourage anyone to seek out information about this lifesaving gesture and look at the possibilities it holds. Being able to say you saved a life is something very special.”

By returning to the Mullaghcarn summit on New Year’s Day, Sean wanted to send a simple but powerful message: life is a journey - and no matter the challenges, you keep going.

Gortin Glen Forest Park, nestled on the slopes of Mullaghcarn just outside the village of Gortin, is widely regarded as one of County Tyrone’s natural gems. With over 10 kilometres of walking trails, a scenic drive and accessible routes suitable for families and experienced hikers alike, it continues to attract locals and visitors year-round. The mountain’s name, Mullaghcarn - meaning “the summit of the pile of stones” - reflects centuries-old traditions of pilgrimage and spiritual reflection, adding further depth to the annual New Year’s climb.

Friends of the Glens thanked the hundreds of walkers who turned out in good spirits to support the event, describing the atmosphere on the trail as “heart-warming” and full of positivity as 2026 began.

Sean’s story has added a deeper meaning to this year’s walk - not only celebrating the beauty of the Sperrins, but also the extraordinary impact of organ donation and the strength of the human spirit.

For more information on living organ donation or the work of the transplant team at Belfast City Hospital, contact (028) 9504 3872 or email donatelife@belfasttrust.hscni.net