Big Aidan, everyone called him that not because he was 6 foot 4 but because of the size of his personality, was killed in a traffic accident last October, whilst cycling.  I had known him for 30 years, initially as a work colleague, soon a close friend, and for the last 10 years as cycling buddies in La Lanterne Rouge Cycling Club.

Aidan was the kindest and most generous person I have ever known.  He was always doing someone a good turn.  He was a great supporter of the Special Olympics in Ulster, for whom he coached and refereed basketball and helped at various sporting events. During our last club cycle together he talked about how rewarding it was to help the Special Olympians and encouraged us all to volunteer.

Aidan's passing is a huge loss to everyone who knew him. I know that Special Olympics Ulster will miss him terribly. I hope my cycle will both honour his memory and help raise funds for a cause that was so close to his heart.