Charity cycle takes in Mayo on a route through Ireland west

A GROUP of 22 London-Irish cyclists are currently touring around Mayo on a charity cycle to raise funds for the Haringey Irish Cultural and Community Centre in the UK capital as well as the 'forgotten Irish'.

The group arrived at The Helm in Westport yesterday (Wednesday) and are cycling through Louisburgh and Leenane today (Thursday) before over-nighting back in Westport.

Early tomorrow (Friday), at 10 a.m., they set off for Ballina via Newport, Pontoon and Foxford, and are expected to arrive at the Twin Trees Hotel & Leisure Club at 6 p.m.

They will stay in the Twin Trees Hotel for the night before departing at 10 a.m. on Saturday (June 3) for Sligo, via Enniscrone, to arrive at the Riverside Hotel at 6 p.m.

The group have their own musicians with them for the 260km cycle, which takes in some of the most stunning scenery in Mayo and Sligo.

Since the charity cycle was set up 16 years ago, the group has organised an annual event for various charities, raising in excess £500,000 in that time. More than 400 participants have travelled through Ireland, the UK and even Africa since the very first ride along the English coast.