Charity cycle launched in aid of Maggie’s Highlands

Plans for a 500-mile fundraising cycle have been launched in Inverness to help raise £150,000 for a Highland cancer charity.

Maggie’s 500’ fundraising cycle will see around 45 well-known local business owners tackle a 500 mile route taking in Elgin, Aviemore, Fort William, Lochcarron and Ullapool before returning to Inverness.

The event – which is due to take place on September 11 next year – is the brainchild of Ark Estates managing director Willie Gray and former commonwealth Games Cyclist Kenny Riddle with hopes of raising vital funds and raising awareness of the Highland charity.

During a launch at Maggie’s Centre, Raigmore, last night event leader Mr Gray said: “Like everyone, we have all been touched by cancer in some way and I can tell you that Maggie’s is a lifeline for people in the same situation. As soon as I learned that the centre is entirely funded by donation and costs £500k per year to run, that was the spark to plan Maggie’s 500”

It’s hoped the event will raise £150,000 for the charity’s centre which sees 11,000 visitors per year.