Freewheelers MC complete Annual Midlands Toy Run
The Freewheelers MC held the 15th annual toy run today, Sunday December 4, to raise funds for the children’s wards at the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar and Teach Fáilte.
In existence for more than 40 years now, the Freewheelers MC have chapters all over the country, and the North-Central chapter, based in Westmeath, Longford, Laois and Offaly, organised this event.
A large number of bikers and supporters braved the rain and bitter cold to gather at Kinnegad Plaza. This year was marked by the absence of Billy ‘the barber’ Beahan, one of the founders of the run, along with Frank Kane, who sadly passed away a couple of weeks ago. Instead of a minute’s silence, a round of applause was had in celebration of Billy’s life.
The first stop after leaving the Plaza was the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar, where Santa dropped off presents for the children’s ward. Due to Covid concerns, they were handed over to Nurse Mags Moran at the door to keep all parties safe.
The next stop was at Teach Fáilte, where Santa handed out presents to delighted children, and the team at Teach Fáilte provided hot soup and refreshment for the cold and wet bikers, which they greatly appreciated.
After the children saw Santa, the Freewheelers MC presented €1,875 to Fidelma Bennett for the refuge, funds that were raised during the day.
A raffle was officiated by Santa and members of the club and there were many great prizes kindly donated by First Bike On Scene, Precision Customs, Bikergear.ie, Eagan’s Motorcycle Clothing, Daybreak Delvin, Chopshop Barbershop and Academy, The Plaza Kinnegad and Freewheeler Bap.
Speaking on behalf of the club, Delvin man, Ian Dyna Liddy, president, North-Central Chapter, Freewheelers MC, thanked all those who came out in support on a cold and wet day, and for their generosity for the two worthy causes. A big thank you to the helpers Orla Kane, Mel O’Donoghue, Aimee Kane, Dearbhla Liddy and Paul Galvin who went above and beyond, Ian said.
The Freewheelers MC look forward to seeing everyone again next year’s toy run, the Midlands Motorcycle Festival in August and at future events, Ian said.