Castlederg's Linda completes charity cycle in memory of late mother-in-law

A DETERMINED Castlederg woman has completed a heartfelt charity cycle, proving that pedal power can truly make a difference.

Linda Irwin, an inspirational mother and post office manager, took to the roads on Sunday, March 30, cycling the highways and byways of Tyrone in a wheely special way to mark Mother’s Day.

Linda’s journey was fueled by a powerful reason - her husband, Arnold, and his two sisters, Wendy Cassidy and Paula Sachdev, commemorated the 50th anniversary of their beloved mother, Rebecca Elizabeth Irwin’s passing from cancer on March 28, 1975.

“I decided to mark the anniversary by cycling 50 miles to raise funds for the local charity, Care for Cancer,” Linda said ahead of the event.

“Rebecca was only 35 when she passed, and I thought this would be a meaningful way to honour her memory.”

Linda, who described herself as “not exactly a seasoned cyclist,” pushed herself around the entire course, showing immense determination and spirit.

She received fantastic support along the way both from those cheering her on and her cycling companion, Sharon Craig, who rode beside her for 40 of the 50 mile journey.

“The weather was brilliant and Sharon and I had great times recalling fond memories as well as making some new ones," she said.

The route took them from Linda’s home at Ednagee Road to Castlederg Cemetery, through Castlederg, Ardstraw, Newtownstewart, Gortin, Omagh, Drumquin and back again to the Castlederg Cemetery on the Drumquin Road - a true tour de Tyrone.

Thanks to the incredible generosity from online donations, family, friends, post office customers and her community, Linda not only completed the cycle but also raised an impressive £5,454.75 for Care for Cancer.

“I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve received,” Linda added.

“This journey was about more than just cycling - it was about celebrating Rebecca’s legacy, bringing people together, and supporting a charity that means so much to our family.

"I’m proud to have done it.”