Ray Johnstone’s Gumtree ad will rip your heart out

WE ALL know Gumtree can be a terrifying place, but this Aussie chap has posted the most heartbreakingly pure call-out you will ever read.

This is Ray Johnstone, a hero of our time who needs a friend.

LADIES and gentlemen, this may well be the most heartbreaking thing you will see today.

But before you go and rip your heart right out of your chest, rest assured, this story has a happy ending.

We all know Gumtree is a terrifying universe, largely associated with everything from overpriced apartments and broken old bookcases to illicit drugs and creepy sexual offers.

But this online ad, posted last week, by an old Aussie chap named Ray Johnstone is so pure, it has broken hearts across Australia.

More than 26,000 of them, judging by the last count on the ad’s view clicker.

Ray explains that he’s a widowed pensioner from Lewiston, in Adelaide’s north. He’s also a keen land-based fisherman who is looking for a mate to keep him company and split costs with.

“My name is Ray Johnstone. Australian. I’m a widowed pensioner who is looking for a fishing mate. My previous mate is now deceased.” How’s your heart doing so far?

“What I want is a fishing mate in a similar position to myself who also wants someone to go fishing with.” Still good there?

“I am willing to share all costs, e.g. petrol, bait, and should you happen to own a boat (I am) willing to pay all ramp fees, but happy if you are also a land-based fisherman.” Is your heart in your throat yet?

“If you are interested contact me to arrange a meeting to see if we could get along with each other.” HAS YOUR HEART EXPLODED YET?

The worst part of all? Under “Condition”, he’s elected the term “Used”.

Just let that sink in.

Oh God.

But after his ad went viral, Ray revealed on Monday that he had indeed found a fishing buddy.

He’s a local, he said, who he plans to meet this week.

But from all of us, Ray, we say, don’t worry mate. We’ve got your back. #IllFishWithRay.