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Remember the Pope's visit last summer? Unlike some global leaders, Pope Francis shuns the use of big, luxury limos when he's on official business, and usually gets driven around in much humbler hatchbacks, which are then given to charity afterwards.
Thus it was with the Pontiff's visit to Ireland, when his official car was a simple Skoda Rapid Spaceback, which has since been donated to charity. The charity in question, as selected by Diaramd Martin the Archbishop of Dublin, is Foyle Search and Rescue.
Foyle Search and Rescue was set up in 1993 by local people in Derry in response to the high number of drownings in the River Foyle. The Rapid will be used as a patrol vehicle during the identified peak times of need and will assist the team in their daily tasks and operations.
Stephen Twells, chairman of Foyle Search and Rescue, commented: "I was speechless when I heard the good news! Pope Francis' car will provide a morale boost to our volunteers at this time, during what has been a very tough year for all of us in the city. I also know that this gift will be a great comfort to many families here in Derry knowing that we have been recognised by the Holy Father, and by Archbishop Martin, for the work that we do."
The car was handed over to Foyle Search and Rescue by John Mullholland Motors, who will be hanging on to the car's original 182-D-2018 numberplate, now that it's on its new Northern Ireland plates.
Speaking today, Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing and Product at ŠKODA Ireland, said: "Skoda are delighted to have been a small part of history supporting Pope Francis on his visit to Ireland. We wish Foyle Search and Rescue well with their great work. I am certain the Skoda Rapid will give them reliable service for many years to come. I would also like to thank John Mullholland of John Mullholland Motors who was fundamental in ensuring Pope Francis was transported in a Skoda during his visit to Ireland"