'˜White van man' alert in Draperstown, Desertmartin, Bellaghy and Magherafelt

During a video of the route for this weekend’s Cycle Against Suicide Spin Off which starts from Draperstown, the ‘White Van Man’ proved to be the star of the show.

Hundreds of cyclists of all abilities are expected to take part in the charity trek

which aims to bring awareness of mental health problems and show solidarity with those who have lost loved ones to suicide in towns rights across the south Derry area.

Starting at 10.30am from the BackRow centre in Draperstown, the cycle passes through Desertmartin, Magherafelt, Castledawson, Bellaghy, Gulladuf, Maghera and Tobermore.

It is one of only two spin-off events of the main -all-Ireland Cycle Against Suicide being held in Northern Ireland.

There will also be a family Fun Cycle which will join the main cycle for the last 3k from Straw Car Park into the town at 4pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Registration is free and can be done Fri 17th 7-8pm and Sat 18th 8.30-10.30am at the Back Row Centre Draperstown and all participants must make sure to wear their helmets.

Mid-Ulster MLA, Ian Milne has urged people to come out on their bikes.

“I commend the organisers objective of raising awareness of the considerable help and support that is available for everyone battling depression and at risk of self-harm and suicide,” said the Sinn Fein assembly man.

“It is a great pleasure to be working with a great team of committed individuals who are involved in facilitating the Bellaghy and Gulladuff stages of Saturday’s cycle. We are all looking forward to great community support for this very much needed initiative.”