Mayo invitation extended to Charlie Bird over his Croagh Patrick wish

A Mayo public representative has praised retired RTÈ journalist Charlie Bird as "an inspiration to us all" after his appearance on the Late Late Show.

Mr. Bird spoke on the programme about his life since being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease earlier this year and revealed how he has been "blown away" by the support he has received.

During the course of the interview, he said he is still well enough to go walking in the mountains of Co. Wicklow every day.

"I get out and walk every day to prove to myself that I can still do it - I jokingly told my mates I have one wish, to climb Croagh Patrick again - to prove I can still do it."

In a social media message following his interview, the cathaoirleach of the West Mayo Municipal District, Councillor Brendan Mulroy told Charlie: "You and you family have the heart of a nation."

Councillor Mulroy continued: "I, along with my friends, would be delighted to welcome you to Mayo, Westport and Murrisk and then climb Croagh Patrick with you."

Councillor Mulroy tagged his message #seeyouonthereekCharlie.

During the course of his chat with the Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy, Charlie said: "I cry every day because of what happened to me.

"If I was a betting person, my feeling is that I don't think I will see another Christmas."

He said he was receiving letters every day from all over the country.

"I have people praying for me, I get Mass cards, candles, I am blown away by that support. It lifts me," he added.