Friends raise £1,500 for Air Ambulance NI in memory of Ballyclare cyclist

A group of friends from the Ballyclare area are conducting a generous effort for the Air Ambulance Northern Ireland following the sudden death of avid cyclist, Colin Patterson.
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Mr Patterson, who was the dearly-loved husband of Elaine, much-loved father of Hannah and Andrew, loving son of Margaret and Junior, brother of Gary and Ryan, son-in-law of Agnes, brother-in-law of Carolyn, nephew of Madge and cousin of Nigel, passed away suddenly at home on December 29. The Air Ambulance was tasked to the scene.

Three kindhearted friends of Hannah have commenced a fundraising effort for the worthy cause in Colin’s memory.

Emily Millar from Ballynure, along with friends Ellen Mawhinney and Jenni Hutchinson, will be running 50 miles this month to collect donations.

Money is being raised for the Air Ambulance NI.Money is being raised for the Air Ambulance NI.
Money is being raised for the Air Ambulance NI.

Commenting on the effort, Emily said: “This was one of my Grandpa’s favourite charities, and since he passed nearly three years ago I’ve always intended to raise money for them.

“More recently, they provided care for my best friend’s family just this week. There is no better time than now.”

Ellen added: “We will power through and conquer in a tribute for our best friend and her family.”

So far the trio have raised £1,496. If you would like to make a donation, click here

Emily, Ellen and Jenni have been praised by the local Area Fundraising Manager for Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, Grace Williams.

In a statement issued to the Times, Grace said: “We want to say a heartfelt thank you to Emily, Ellen and Jenni who are taking on the incredible challenge of running 50 miles in January to raise vital funds in memory of their friend’s father, Colin Patterson.

“Their inspiring support means so much to us, especially during this difficult time when so many fundraising events have been cancelled. We are immensely grateful to see such a fantastic fundraising effort within the local community and we wish them the best of luck with their challenge!

Air Ambulance NI needs to raise £5,500 each day to maintain our service which brings urgent medical assistance to at least one or two people in Northern Ireland every day, so public donations like this one are crucial.

“If you would like to donate or organise your own event, please contact us by email at [email protected] or call us on 028 9262 2677.”

Colin, who was a member of Kings Moss Cycling Club, was laid to rest in Ballyclare Cemetery following a service at Ballyclare Presbyterian Church on Saturday, January 2.

Members of the Ballyclare-based club lined up at the front of the Doagh Road church to pay their respects to the “respected member”.

A spokesperson for the club said: “Colin was held in high regards with everyone in the club. He was a true gentleman and was always willing to help anyone in need, either with mechanical issues or organising events.

“The members turned out in large numbers wearing the club colours and lined up outside the church to say their last farewells to Colin Patterson.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Colin’s family at this sad time.”

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