Remembrance through Cycling

Fivemiletown Royal British Legion Veterans Cycling Club in conjunction with Lisnaskea UDR Association are in preparation for their new challenge for 2022.

 

Last year, they cycled around the 27 graves of those from 4 UDR who were murdered by the Provisional IRA raising over £4,000 for SEFF. They were met by family members at most of the graves. The sense of appreciation from the families that the loss of their loved ones, and their sacrifice would not be forgotten had a lasting impact on the cyclists.

 

With a number of our members having served in 6 UDR l it was felt it would be fitting to repeat the challenge visiting the 43 graves of those from the Battalion who were murdered.

 

Over the last few months, the Cycling Club has been in training and completing a recce of all the gravesites. As there are 43 graves spread over a larger area, the challenge of cycling over 140 miles will be completed over 2 days.

 

It will take place on 8th/9th July 2022. Donations made will support the work of SEFF and MAPS who both do fantastic work in the County Tyrone area for the UDR families of those murdered.

 

Richard Scott/Margo Hetherington (MAPS) and Nevin Brown (SEFF) will be liaising with family members who would like to attend their loved one's grave when the cyclists arrive. A poppy cross will be laid at each grave and the exhortation/minutes silence will be observed at each graveyard.

 

If any budding cyclists would like to join us on the cycle for it all or just a leg, get in touch with Iain Lendrum (Mob: 07866511961).

 

Speaking ahead of the initiative, SEFF's Director of Services Kenny Donaldson said: "We are in awe of those attached with Fivemiletown Royal British Legion Veterans Cycling Club who are building upon their efforts last year by engaging in a marathon 2-day cycle remembrance challenge".

 

"SEFF and our colleagues in MAPS are honoured and feel immensely privileged that our two charities are to be supported through any fundraising monies raised".

 

"We will each ensure that any monies raised will be invested for the benefit of military veterans".