Memorial cycle raises more than £4,500

A GROUP of security force veterans from Fivemiletown have raised at least £4,500 by cycling around the graves of Tyrone men and women who were murdered while serving in the UDR during the Troubles.

The energetic volunteers from Fivemiletown Royal British Legion cycling club travelled more than 180 miles in just two days last weekend to pay their respects to a total of 43 fallen colleagues from 6 UDR.

The money raised by the cyclists as part of the challenge is being divided between two local charities who support military veterans and their families across West Tyrone, SEFF West Tyrone Gateway Service and MAPS in Omagh.

Kenny Donaldson, SEFF’s director of services, said, “This was a special act of solidarity shown for the bereaved families of those murdered through terrorism.

“Late last year, the cyclists carried out a journey of remembrance across county Fermanagh in remembrance of all those connected with 4 UDR who were murdered. This time around, the feat was even more challenging given the hilly terrain in several areas and the size of geography to be covered over a two-day period.

“The initiative was well-received and the cyclists were commended by many families for their practical efforts in honouring the memory of those stolen away through terrorism.

“In standing in Castlederg Cemetery on Saturday morning, you couldn’t help but be touched by the scene of families gathered at their loved one’s graves.

“There was a very real visual sense of the damage terrorism had wreaked within the area, and this was without the police and civilian families factored in to proceedings.”

Mr Donaldson added, “We commend the cyclists for what they have done and we were also privileged to work collaboratively with the bereaved families as well as MAPS, Omagh.

“And like MAPS we will utilise the monies raised for the betterment and support of former six UDR personnel and their families.”

Anyone who still wishes to contribute to the fundraiser can do so through GoFundMe.

The cyclists also have had individual sponsor sheets running, and the club as well as SEFF and MAPS have received donations towards the cause.