A Monaghan man is gearing himself up for a charity cycle next week that will afford him the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the Black Sea and beyond.
Derek Boyd from Clontibret will begin his 6,000km charity cycle from Athens on Monday and all monies raised will be donated to So Sad Ireland.
The organisation which is based in Cavan, Louth, Laois, Meath and Monaghan raises awareness around mental health and helps to prevent suicide in Ireland.
Derek, meanwhile, says he is focused now on getting started and is hoping to complete his Eastern European cycling adventure within four months.
He also highlighted how he wanted the cycle to raise awareness around the work of So Sad and the importance of people seeking help when their mental health is challenged.
"Young people have been really impacted by the Covid-19 restrictions," added Derek.
"There has been a lot of suicides lately as well...this is about encouraging people not to be afraid to pick up the phone and ask for help.
"There is help available and this fundraiser is about raising awareness around all of that."
