AN IRISH MAN is driving the length of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way in an open-top vintage tractor to raise funds for the people of Gaza.

Pat Murphy, a teacher and father of four from Corofin, Co Galway will make the 2,800km journey in a red 1962 David Brown 850, a vintage tractor with a maximum speed of 24km/h.

The drive from Malin Head in Donegal to Mizen Head in Cork would typically take around eight hours in a modern vehicle, but Murphy expects his journey to take two weeks.

While the vintage tractor has been fully restored, it still lacks the comforts and technology of more modern vehicles, with no power steering or suspension, though Murphy has brought a cushion to sit on.

There is also no cabin, meaning Murphy will be exposed to the elements. “If it rains, I’ll just be going through it”, he said, adding “I will also be wearing a lot of factor 50 and a sombrero hat to protect me from the sun”. He said he’s also brought a heavy coat for when the day gets cooler.

Murphy plans to drive for eight hours a day, taking short breaks every couple of hours.

The route Murphy will take in his tractor.

He set off on his journey yesterday at Malin Head and is accompanied by a friend in a camper van, which will serve as Murphy’s accommodation each night.

All proceeds from the trip will be donated to humanitarian aid organisation Concern Worldwide and its Gaza appeal.

Murphy chose Concern having previously worked as a volunteer with the charity in Rwanda 1995 and 1996 following the genocide that occurred there.

“I really value the work that Concern does, especially after working for them in refugee camps after the Rwanda genocide”, he said.

“The people of Gaza really need our help today. Anybody who has seen the pictures on television knows that the people there need our support”, he added.

 He hopes to raise €5,000 through his GoFundMe page and has already received over €3,400 in donations.

Murphy said that he plans to post updates on his progress each day on his Facebook and Instagram pages.