THERE has been a change of plan for this year’s Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride, which normally takes place in and around Saintfield, Co Down.

Ride organiser, Joan Cunningham, recently received a request from Downpatrick business owner, Bartley Murphy, for the ride to be held in Downpatrick this year, as the town was devastated by flooding and is in much need of some Christmas cheer.

In the interests of festive goodwill, Joan agreed.Riders should meet at Downpatrick Racecourse, 24 Ballydugan Road, Downpatrick, this Saturday, December 2nd, at 11.30am, for a mulled wine and mince pie reception, to set off around 12.45pm. The ride will gather in St Patrick’s Square around 1.15-1.30pm, where Hugo Duncan, Boxcar Brian and Gerard Dornan will provide entertainment.

The ‘Real Santa’ will be in attendance, leading the ride in Angelo Kane’s carriage.

Entries will be on the field – previous entries made online will be refunded.