2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
1980s TV star Timmy Mallett spotted in Wicklow
Renowned for his energetic personality, colourful attire and striking spectacles, Timmy was a star of the TV screens in the 1980s and 90s, hosting television shows such as Wide Awake Club and Wacaday. In 1990 he had a number one hit single with his cover version of single Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini, and more recently he appeared on I'm a Me Out of Here! In 2008.
Having circumnavigated the UK on his 'Timmeee' bike, and stopping along the way to paint some of the stunning landscapes he came across, followed by a tour of the coastal boarders of Northern Ireland, Timmy decided to do a solo tour along the Wild Atlantic Way - exploring rural Ireland by bike and documenting the experience in paint and prose.
He was a welcome visitor to the Wicklow RNLI Lifeboat Station on Thursday, where he was greeted by some of the volunteer crew and members of the fundraising branch.
Wicklow RNLI PRO Tommy Dover said: 'It was great for everyone present to be able to welcome Timmy to Wicklow to the lifeboat station. He initially contacted the fundraising branch to ask if it would be OK for him to visit, and we were all delighted with the idea. He just wanted to see how the station operates and give us a nod for all the work we do. He is very much community-spirt driven.
'Some of our more 'seasoned' crew would have been very familiar with him, while some of our newer crew might not have been quite so familiar. He was very friendly and chatted away to members of the crew and the fundraising branch. You have to admire his enthusiasm, and the fact he is taking on the entire Irish coastline, aged in his late 60s.'
Prior to arriving in Wicklow town, Timmy took in some of the sights in Arklow, and heard all about the history of the iconic 19 Arches Bridge over the River Avoca, constructed between 1754 and 1756.
After leaving Wicklow RNLI Lifeboat Station, he cycled to Hunter's Hotel in Rathnew, where he stopped for lunch. He also went on to post an image on Instagram of the sign announcing entry to Newcastle village, before making his way on to Dublin.
