Truckers from Mid-Ulster are sending a toy monkey on a mission around the world in an effort to raise awareness of cancer.
Tomorrow (Thursday), Ritchie, the cuddly monkey, will set off on the first leg of his journey with Johnny Dunlop.
Together they will touch down in Italy where it is hoped their fundraising campaign will kick off.
The aim is to get as many people as possible to donate £1 and in return they will get their picture taken with Ritchie (pictured).
Following his visit to Italy, Ritchie will travel to Portugal, Spain, and Greece before moving on to Mexico, New York and finally Texas.
He will return home to Mid-Ulster on Sunday.
The idea for Ritchie’s global adventure came about after members of Mid-Ulster Truckers purchased him during an auction at a Marie Curie fundraiser held in Ballykelly recently.
Brigid Donnelly of Mid-Ulster Truckers said they hope Ritchie will not only raise awareness of cancer but will also raise vital funds for a cancer charity of their choice.
“Ritchie has his own Facebook page, his own passport and birth certificate,” laughed Brigid.
“He is booked on eight different flights this week where he will travel around the world to help raise awareness of cancer.
“He was down visiting Ward 10 North in the City Hospital in Belfast this week and has already been invited to his first wedding on the 10th of July so he has become very popular.”
The Mid-Ulster Truckers hope to further boost their fundraising efforts when Ritchie takes on a sky dive with country star Ritchie Remo on May 16.
To keep up-to-date with Ritchie’s adventures, follow him on his Facebook page ‘Ritchie Midulster’.

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