A group of motorcyclists has arrived in Co Galway as part of a national fundraiser for the youth mental health charity Jigsaw.
Damian Sheridan is leading the 'Roaring Hearts' crew on a 72-hour journey that will cover 15,000km and visit all 14 local Jigsaw services across the country.
Mr Sheridan is a facilities officer at Jigsaw and decided to fundraise for the charity after receiving a moving handwritten letter from a young boy.
"In his letter, the 12-year-old boy expressed his gratitude to Jigsaw for bringing happiness back into his sister's life, which, in turn, brought joy to their entire family," he said.
Mr Sheridan said: "He mentioned how much his family can look forward to now. He shared how he collected wood from the nearby forest, cut and sold it as firewood in his community.
"From his efforts, he managed to raise nearly €300, which he donated to Jigsaw as a thank-you for all they did for his sister.
"To me, this showcased the incredible impact Jigsaw has, not only on young people struggling with mental health, but also on their families and the wider community."
The charity provides both online and in-person mental health advice and support to young people, parents and those who work with young people.
Spokesperson for the charity Matthew Oakes said demand for their mental health services and support is on the increase.
Mr Oakes said: "As we see more and more young people expressing feelings of isolation, fear and anxiety. It's truly disheartening to see so many children and young adults struggling and finding it hard to get the support they so desperately need."
He said last year Jigsaw offered over 36,000 appointments to young people and there were over 500,000 visits to its website.
He said: "This cross-country challenge combines the thrill of motorcycle riding with a heartfelt mission to support young people facing mental health challenges."
The rally began in Dublin yesterday and continued on to Co Wicklow, Co Meath and Co Donegal.
This morning the motorcyclists stopped off in Co Roscommon and are in Co Galway this afternoon before heading to Co Limerick and on to Co Kerry and Co Cork tonight.
Tomorrow their final leg takes them to Co Tipperary, Co Offaly and Co Kildare.
