#RNLI - Lough Ree RNLI has announced its Lap of Lough Ree charity cycle will take place on Sunday 6 March.
As it has for the past two years, the cycle will start and finish at The Bounty at Buccaneers Rugby Club in Athlone, and will travel north through Ballymahon, cross the Shannon at Lanesboro Bridge and complete the 85km lap of Lough Ree travelling south on the Roscommon side, via Kilteevan, to cross again at Athlone Bridge.
Lough Ree RNLI relies entirely on public donations to fund its operation, and the Lap of Lough Ree is an important fundraising event for the charity organisation.
Lough Ree Lifeboat Station was the busiest station in Ireland in 2014 and rescued the highest number of people in 2015, so maintaining a high standard of service in the area is vital.
Brendan Finnegan, Lough Ree RNLI fundraising committee chairman, said: "We run a variety of events throughout the year to raise funds and we are privileged to have a huge level of support in the community.
"The cycle has proved very popular since we first organised it two years ago and it is a pleasure to run events that participants can get actively involved in. We are hoping for a big turnout again this year."
Registration for the event will take place from 9am on Sunday 6 March at The Bounty, with the cycle starting at 10am. Snack packs will be provided to all entrants and refreshments will be provided midway, at Lanesborough and also at The Bounty afterwards on return. Subject to numbers interested, an extended route may be arranged for cyclists who enjoy a more challenging ride.
The fee for entry is €25 on the day, but early entry is €20 via the Facebook entry form.