A TEAM of six cyclists set off on Sunday to take on the iconic North Coast 500 route in support of the Eilidh MacLeod Memorial Trust.
The charity was established in memory of the young piper from the Isle of Barra who died in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack along with 21 others.
The cycling team, made up of members from across Scotland and England, left Inverness on Sunday and will spend the next seven days cycling the 500-mile Highland circuit to raise money for the trust.
The team is made up of Andy White from Cheshire, Jane Nicolson from the Isle of Lewis, Paul Hughes, originally from Kelso, Malcolm Thomson, originally from Lanark, Steve Crosbie from Largs and Iagan MacNeil from Edinburgh and the Isle of Barra.
Over £10,000 has been raised so far.
Over the past few months, the six cyclists have been training and preparing for the task ahead in their hometowns and cities.
The ride was the brainchild of White, who is a relation of MacLeod’s. He said: “We’re excited to be heading off on this seven-day challenge and it’s made all the easier knowing we have raised over £10,000 for youth music groups before our wheels start turning.
“Everyone has been incredibly generous in their support and that will see Eilidh’s legacy flourish through other budding musicians.
“The North Coast 500 is iconic and a route that we’ve all been looking forward to experiencing as we take in some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery.
“This will be the motivation we need as we average 70 hilly miles a day in the saddle and raise even more money in Eilidh’s name over the coming days.”
In recognition of MacLeod’s ability and love for music, the trust aims to support young musicians across Scotland.
As part of the challenge, the cyclists will distribute £500 grants to several youth music groups along the route.
The first grant was issued to the City of Inverness Youth Pipe Band on Sunday morning from the city’s Torvean Caravan Park.
Other groups set to benefit include Caithness Music, Feis air an Oir, Strathfleet Buttons and Bows and Gizzen Briggs traditional youth music band.
Eilidh’s Trust trustee and team member Iagan MacNeil added: “We are thrilled at the level of support that has been shown to us so far.
“It has been beyond our expectations but demonstrates the legacy Eilidh has created that ensures young musicians can benefit from the same opportunities open to her through her love of piping.
“Eilidh’s hand of friendship will continue to reach out this week as we award funding to several youth music groups along the North Coast 500 route, making sure young talent continues to thrive and develop across the Highlands.”
Donations can be made via a JustGiving page HERE.
