Rev Stockitt to lead epic tour of cathedrals in memory of mother

The Rector of St James, Donagheady, will be joined on the trip by thirteen friends from the Donemana area.

The group – who meet up twice a week to cycle – will set off on Friday morning (August 5) and will cover 240 miles over the three days.

Their itinerary includes visits to the Church of Ireland cathedrals in Londonderry, Raphoe, Enniskillen, Clogher, Armagh, Dromore, Lisburn and Belfast.

Dr Stockitt says the friends belong to different Christian churches in Tyrone and funds raised will be split evenly between their two chosen projects.

The first is to renovate Donagheady Parish Hall and bring it up to modern day standards, making it a venue for all to use. The second is the charity Cycle Against Suicide, which raises awareness about mental health.

Rev Stockitt says his interest in mental health stems from the loss of his mother, 30 years ago this week, and from contact with parishioners who have also been bereaved through suicide.

Dr Stockitt says Northern Ireland has the highest suicide rate in the United Kingdom at 16.5 per 100,000. This means that in the 18 years since the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement, more people have died through suicide than were killed in the 30 years of ‘The Troubles’.

You can support Dr Stockitt’s cycle, by donating online at https://www.sponsorme.co.uk/robinstockitt/eight-cathedrals-sponsored-bike-ride.aspx