Walking in Memory of a Lifelong Friend: Philip Robinson’s 200-Mile Tribute to Jim Archer

Carla Lockhart MP • July 30, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the powerful friendship between Philip Robinson and the late Jim Archer, as Philip undertakes a 200-mile walk in memory of his best friend of 40 years.

Jim Archer, a well-known and much-loved figure in the local community, sadly passed away on 24th July 2024. In a heartfelt tribute, Philip Robinson has taken on the challenge of walking 200 miles to raise funds for Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke in Jim’s name.


Speaking following her recent meeting with Philip, Carla Lockhart MP said:


“It was a real privilege to meet with Philip Robinson this week and hear about the incredible journey he’s embarked upon in memory of his lifelong friend, Jim Archer.


The bond between Philip and Jim spanned over four decades from their time working together at Ulster Carpets, to standing side by side in Portadown True Blues Flute Band, and supporting their beloved Hanover FC. They were inseparable, and this tribute walk is a moving reflection of the strength and meaning of that friendship.


Philip’s walk is not only a personal act of remembrance, but a deeply generous one raising funds for a vital cause that helps so many families across Northern Ireland. As he nears the final leg of his journey, he’ll be joined by Jim’s devoted wife Janet and their sons, Craig and Ross a fitting and emotional end to what has already been a remarkable tribute.


I would encourage everyone to show their support for Philip’s efforts by donating and helping honour Jim’s memory in a way that will continue to make a difference in the lives of others.”


Donations can be made via the official tribute page:

 https://jim-archer.muchloved.com

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP July 30, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has met with the Minister for Health, Mike Nesbitt, alongside senior representatives from Marie Curie, to highlight the urgent need for strategic investment and reform in palliative and end of life care across Northern Ireland.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 30, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament to mark the 160th anniversary of The Salvation Army, and to commend the vital and compassionate work of its teams across the Upper Bann constituency.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 30, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has welcomed the commencement of long-awaited resurfacing works on Mill Hill, Waringstown, following sustained lobbying efforts on behalf of local residents.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 30, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has praised the commitment and innovation of family-run business Gilfresh Produce following a recent visit to mark their 60th anniversary.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 24, 2025
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has welcomedan initiative offering free industry-accredited ATV training for farmers in GBand Northern Ireland.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 24, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart seized an opportunity in Parliament on Tuesday to speak powerfully on behalf of the people and businesses of Northern Ireland, laying bare the daily impact of the post-Brexit Protocol and Windsor Framework.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 24, 2025
Publication of the government’s draft legislation for the 2025-26 Finance Bill confirms that the Labour government is set to press ahead with its crippling inheritance agenda next year.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 23, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a significant infrastructure investment of £3 million for the M1, secured after sustained pressure on the Department for Infrastructure to prioritise road upgrades in the local area.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 23, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is urging greater awareness of the RADAR key scheme, which provides people with disabilities secure and independent access to locked public toilets across the UK. This renewed call comes after she was contacted by a local constituent struggling to access public facilities due to their disability.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 23, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has made an emotional and urgent appeal in Parliament on behalf of a young constituent living with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), a rare but devastating genetic disorder that is treatable only if diagnosed before symptoms appear.