The majority of the cyclists posing for The Harp after meeting 7 year old Hannah Maddock (centre). Hannah suffers from Leukaemia and will be one of many to benefit from the money raised from the Cycle Appeal

Birmingham Irish Cycle Appeal is an annual charity bike ride that was started by Joe and Michelle Argue and is now in its twelfth year. They originally wanted to liven up fundraising and involve all groups of the community by organising a fun yet challenging event.
People of all ages and fitness levels started training in March, in preparation for the cycle from Mizen Head in Cork to Malin Head in Donegal starting on July 21st.
The route covers an impressive 550 miles along the east coast and the team’s average distance to be travelled each day is one hundred miles!
Amongst the 26 Cyclists who range in age from 15 to 63, Joe is particularly proud that his daughter Caroline and granddaughter Lauren aged 15 are participating.
The Cyclists will be supported by two sponsored mini-busses and a 7.5 tonne truck on their journey.
The benefiting charities this year are DEBRA (Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association) and SPOCC (Society of Parents of Children with Cancer).
If you wish to support the cycle race you can pledge sponsorship over the phone by contacting Michelle on 01564 826975.
Please see the next edition
of The Harp for full coverage of the event.