Two Rowallene Councillors will be riding high on Saturday 10 December.
Big hearted Billy Walker (DUP) and Terry Andrews (SDLP) – who maintain they are the best of friends – have already started passing jibes at each other but all in the best possible taste.
To date they have held a boxing match, ate a monster sub at Subway in Ballynahinch, had a skiff rowing contest, a golf competition and now they are cycling for a local charity in Downpatrick called MACS (Mulholland After Care Services) which provides housing for those in need and homeless, support for young people who are vulnerable, and also provides advice and mentoring support. MACS clients are referred through the Social Services.
Billy Walker said: “Our aim is to cycle from Killyleagh to Crossgar then on to Downpatrick and back to Killyleagh. Neither of the two of us has been on a bike since we were at school so this will be a real test of nerve for us both. But based on previous events we have taken part in, I intend to show Terry a clean pair of heels.
“I think he is probably going to need reinforced struts at the back of his bike if he is to make it home in one piece.”
Billy added: “We are delighted to be fundraising for MACS as at this time of year coming up to Christmas it is important to remember those youngsters who through no fault of their own have experienced difficult times. So we hope our efforts and those who support us or cycle with us actually make a difference to help these vulnerable young people have a happier Christmas.
“We would certainly like anyone who feels up for it to join us on the day. The more the merrier.”
Terry Andrews added: “We are keen to see this event as a success. We have supported a number of charities to date such as the Killyleagh Drop In Centre, Alzeihmers NI, the RNLI, and at the start of 2017 we will be organising a Big Bake Off in aid of the Kevin bell Repatriation Trust.
“Entry and sponsorship forms will be available shortly so keep an eye open for these. They can be got from either Billy or myself.
“But if Billy thinks I’m going to be a push-over he is in for a surprise. I’ll show him not to medal with the pedal when it comes to bikes. But, to be fair, our hearts are both in it to help out these homeless young people at Christmas time.
“So we will be announcing the start times and the route for the 10 December shortly.
“If any cycle clubs or individuals want to join in they are very welcome. Let’s hope we get a nice dry day for the Christmas cycle run”.
