By Sean Moriarty

A group of vintage tractors passed through Killarney today (Thursday) on their way from Mizen Head to Malin Head.

‘The Long Way Home’ Temple Street Hospital and The Kevin Bell Repatriation.

After departing Mizen Head at 6am this morning, the drivers made their way to a fuel stop on the Muckross Road via Bantry, Kenmare and Moll’s Gap.

They passed through Killarney town centre at lunchtime.

Local enthusiasts joined the drivers on various legs of the journey including Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club.

“The inspiration for these worthwhile causes began when a family member of one of the organisers underwent a life-saving kidney transplant operation. This would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the excellent help of the nurses and doctors in Temple Street Hospital,” said Diarmuid French, one of the event’s organisers.

“The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust is close to our hearts for two of our participants who suffered the loss of family members in America. The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust helped alleviate the financial and geographical hardship that was endured taking their loved ones home.

“It was due to this that we decided to repay back the kindness that they gave to these people and the many other families during these tough times.”

The run overnighted in Tralee after 156km of driving on the opening day. Day two will see the drivers make their way from Kerry to Galway, on Saturday they will drive as far as Donegal town.

Sunday, the final day, will take the tractors to the most northerly point in Ireland.