TV legend Timmy Mallett says that Donegal will hold a special place in his heart after a cycling trip like no other.
The British children’s presenter and author has completed an ‘utterly brilliant’ epic cycle across the county as part of his grand 2,000km tour of the north coast.
From Ballyliffin to Bundoran, the Wacaday host made countless friends and discovered the very best of Donegal’s hotels and tourism gems. Thousands of fans have followed his journey on social media as he documented feel-good messages and shared historical tidbits from each stop.
During his rest stops, he was inspired to paint stunning watercolours of his artist’s eye view of people and landscapes of ‘Norn Iron’ and Donegal.
As the journey concluded, a mix of emotions surfaced.
He said: “It’s nickname is the forgotten county. Let me tell you I’ll never forget Donegal.
“Stunning vistas, but more importantly, beautiful people with a soft gentle welcome. I love the way you say Failte and mean it from the bottom of your heart.
“I’ll never forget the kindness, the welcome, the generosity in this lovely county.
“It’s special in my heart forever, God Bless you Donegal.”
The 68-year-old’s adventure is raising funds in memory of his late brother Martin, who had Down Syndrome, and passed away in 2018.
Mallett’s journey began in London last year, circumnavigating the coast of Great Britain, before crossing the sea to Northern Ireland.
He wrote, “Inspired by my brother Martin, with his language and learning difficulties, I’m reminded that each and every day in life is the best day ever and the important thing is to be in the moment.”
