Cyclists passing through Kildare in fundraising cycle

As many as 300 cyclists will take part in a 160km ride through Co Kildare on Sunday for charity.

The Dublin-based Willow Wheelers annual cycle will take participants through Dublin, Meath, Westmeath as well as Kildare.

The cyclists will raise funds for water, health and education projects in Africa, South America and southeast Asia.

Since its foundation, the high-profile club has raised more than €2million for third-world projects.

Founder Christy McDaid said: "These trips are at our own expense as it has been our policy from the start that 100% of funds raised go directly to the projects."

Founded in 1989, the Willow Wheelers Cycling Club is among the largest cycling clubs in Ireland with a focus on the development of junior cyclists.

In addition to adult members of the Willow Wheelers, junior members join from Willow Park Junior School, Willow Park First Year and Blackrock College in south Dublin.

Willow Wheelers fosters the joy of cycling as a recreational sporting activity to be enjoyed by members of all ages.

The Club also promotes a strong community and caring ethos, which is reflected by the Club’s deep ties with and support for African missions and other charitable causes.