Dozens of gardai take part in gruelling 270km cycle across Ireland to raise funds for ill kids

Dozens of gardai have set off on a gruelling 270km cycle trip across the country to raise much needed funds for seriously ill children.

The lycra clad Boys in Blue left the Bridewell Garda station in the capital today - using two wheels to get to the Bridewell Garda Station in Cork city, arriving there on Friday.

And they are hoping to raise tens of thousands of euro for Little Blue Heroes, a not-for-profit charity operated entirely by volunteers.

The charity was set up to help families in need from local communities in Ireland who have children undergoing long-term medical treatment for serious illness.

Dozens of gardai and supporters mounted bikes on Thursday morning before setting off from the capital to Cork, cycling from the Bridewell station in Dublin to the Bridewell in Cork city for the "Little Blue Heroes" children's charity. PHOTO: CONOR MEARAIN

The blue peleton passes Hueston Station, Dublin, as it departs for its 270km cycle to Cork. PHOTO: CONOR A MEARAIN

Barry Ryan, a Garda who is taking part in the charity cycle, said: “The name ‘Little Blue Heroes’ came about when we found that the children we support have a fascination with police uniform, equipment and vehicles.

“This has even led some of the children to make a wish to become an Honorary Garda and become part of the Garda family.

“As heroes to us with the battles they face, these children have become our Little Blue Heroes.”

This is the fifth year the station to station cycling fundraiser has been run and in 2017 cyclists rose over € 18,000 for the Jack & Jill Foundation.