Adam King and An Post collaborate on a new postcard in aid of children’s charities

More than 2.5 million free postcards are available in post offices nationwide.

Ah lads, it really would make your heart melt. Everyone's favourite space whiz (and we mean everyone's) Adam King is teaming up with An Post to send virtual hugs around the world in time for St. Patrick's Day (17 March). More than 2.5 million postcards carrying either the message ‘Barróg Duitse’ or ‘A Hug for You’ are available in post offices nationwide. The postcards are totally free, so all you'll need to do is pop a stamp on it and you can send your hugs anywhere around the world. For every postcard sent, An Post will make a donation to Temple Street Hospital (Children’s Health Foundation) and Cork University Hospital Charity. An Post is hoping to send 100,000 hugs worldwide by St. Patrick's Day. Gift packaging is also available at a reduced price until the end of March, with a 'Hug' postmark visible on all mail over the next few weeks. “We are delighted to link up with Adam," An Post’s Chief Executive David McRedmond said. "He is an inspiration to us all as we encourage everyone to spread joy and love to wherever St Patrick’s day is celebrated. “ Adam said he was really happy that “people will be able to share my hug all over the world. "I can't wait to see all the places it goes!” Adam's parents, Fiona and David, said it was an honor that An Post would work with them. "Adam has always said his virtual hug is for everyone. Thanks to this partnership, we hope people at home and abroad will feel a global sense of connection and kindness." If you're planning on sending any hugs around the world, here are the latest dates of posting to ensure delivery before St. Patrick's Day:

• Australia, India, etc: Tuesday, 1 March
• United States and Canada: Monday, 7 March
• Europe: Friday, 11 March
• Ireland: Tuesday, 15 March