The Proclaimers walked it. An intrepid bunch of 25 are about to cycle it – 500 miles that is - across some of the UK’s most challenging but undoubtedly beautiful roads to raise money for the University of Aberdeen’s cancer research programme.
Preparations are reaching the final stages for the group which comprises academics, NHS staff, friends, colleagues and includes celebrity cyclist Mark Beaumont and STV journalist and cancer survivor Anne Smith, as they are due to set off from Inverness on May 18th.
Leading the way is the Head of the School of Medicine, Medical Science and Nutrition, Professor Steve Heys. The team aims to undertake the full North Coast 500 route over nine days including the dramatic Bealach Na Ba towards Applecross. This legendary rugged pass rises 2,053 feet in just 5.6 miles with gradients of 20% in places and is not for the fainthearted.
As well as their epic cycling effort, the team will be holding cancer awareness-raising events in Ullapool and Wick. These will showcase how the University intends to transform cancer research in the north of Scotland and give guests the opportunity to learn more about Aberdeen's unique approach to fighting cancer while hearing the stories of survivors who will be supporting the challenge. Plans to develop a programme for cancer research in Aberdeen aim to save and improve countless lives. The £4.5 million fundraising appeal will accelerate vital research to improve how cancer is diagnosed and treated - and critically, how it can be prevented.
You can support the cyclists and donate to the fundraising tally by visiting their Just Giving page.
Follow the group’s progress daily on our Facebook page.
