A GoFundMe campaign has commenced to assemble funds for a memorial sculpture for bikers who have tragically lost their lives in motorcycle accidents.

The monument, proposed by the Gone But Not Forgotten Bikers organisation, which kicked off the campaign on July 5, will be erected in Clones, Co. Monaghan.

For over two decades, the organisation has delivered support for the biking community, with over 1500 participants travelling from across the country to participate in the annual memorial event.

Chairperson Anne Marie Marshall said that the Gone But Not Forgotten Bikers organisation receives many messages from people who regret their inability to attend the "annual memorial on that Friday night in May," referring to the annual event which takes place in that month.

The group believes the proposed sculpture will give people the chance to pay their tribute at a dedicated site at any time of the year.

Ms Marshall added that the sculpture "is something that we feel is very important, and something that families will visit and appreciate."

It is hoped that the campaign will produce a beautiful piece of public art, located in a tranquil setting that encourages reflection and remembrance and also symbolises the biking community.

Joint Treasurer Kieran Gavan said: "Bikers are a unique community - distance is no barrier, when the destination is worthwhile.

"We know from talking to families that this dedicated memorial will attract many visitors all year round.

"All help is gratefully received."

The first Gone But Not Forgotten Bikers annual memorial service took place in 2003. It is currently hosted in Clones, which makes the town a natural choice to host the sculpture.

Those interested in aiding the campaign can contact the committee directly via social media, or donate on the group's GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/national-bikers-memorial/.