A MAN proved it really is a long way to Tipperary when he stopped off in Beoley on Monday night as part of a 1,500-mile charity trek driving a horse and cart.

Partially sighted, diabetic heart patient Nick Patiniotis, his horse Grainne and dog Ci stayed a night at Chapel Farm while waiting for a blacksmith.

Father-of-three Mr Patiniotis, 46, began his challenge in Nenagh, Co Tipperary on April 15 and is due to finish at Harefield Hospital on August 29.

He is raising money for the hospital, RNIB and for a charity called Dystonia Ireland.

Anyone wishing to help Nick can contact him on 07796 774505 or via his website www.charitydrive.co.uk