Robert’s ride for Blind Veterans UK

Coleraine man Robert Downes is well known for his love of cycling - and last month he took part in the Prudential RideLondon, a two day festival of cycling set up by Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

By The Newsroom

Published 4th Sep 2014, 12:00 BST

Robert, the only man from Northern Ireland to take part, applied to enter the sportif along with 80,000 others, who were placed in a ballot.

The Causeway Cycle Club Chairman was selected as one of only 25,000 to take part, and he completed the cycle for Blind Veterans UK.

Completing a gruelling 100 miles on closed roads, Robert finished the cycle at The Mall in London, where he was greeted by his two little grandchildren.”

“It was a great experience, “ told Robert.

“I didn’t think I would ever be drawn out of the ballot to take part, and then when I saw what charity I would be cycling for I was really pleased, given my strong links with The Blind Centre.

“I really just want to thank everyone who donated through my ‘just giving’ page - it means a lot to me and the veterans. This charity does great work.”