Colourful Timmy Mallett thrilled by Derry visit

Children’s TV favourite, Timmy Mallett, has visited Derry as part of a 170-mile fundraising cycle in aid of Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London. The presenter arrived on Foyleside yesterday to cycle the city’s iconic Peace Bridge (above) and historic walls. Best known for his colourful glasses, loud shirts and giant foam mallet, labelled “Mallett’s Mallet,” he was accompanied by friends, Andy Burroughs and Tim Rose. The three decided to raise money for Great Ormond Street after Andy's son was treated there for a brain tumour in September last year. While in the city, they also visited Free Derry Corner and Brandywell stadium. Mallett said: "One of the things I'm really thrilled with is we've also been collecting football stadiums. We like our football, we play five-a-side together, the three of us and so going to other football grounds is rather nice. "So I think we've done six while we've been here. We've went to Crusaders, Larne, Carrick Rangers, Coleraine, Portstewart and Derry City. So I think we've done rather well.” Prior to arriving in the city, the trio cycled the North Coast which Malllett described as "beautiful" and "one of the great coastal rides in the world, there's no question." He added: "Do you know what makes it so great? It's not just the scenery, it's the people. The people you meet and they're all so friendly. "People have just given us cash as we've been cycling around. The friendliness, the generosity and along with the fantastic countryside, the beautiful views. Its been an amazing trip."