One of Scotland’s top cyclists will head a crew of enthusiasts hoping to boost a fundraising campaign for a cancer-stricken Moray toddler.
The Forres Cycling Club is holding a family bike run from the town to Findhorn on Sunday, June 21, in aid of local three-year-old Eileidh Paterson, who has High Risk Neuroblastoma.
Eileidh’s mum, Gail Paterson, launched an appeal in April to raise £100,000 to fund a potentially lifesaving trip to America for treatment to prevent a relapse.
After mammoth local fundraising efforts, the tally is now just below £95,000.
World champion cyclist Peter Ettles, 50, who is also from Forres, has pledged to do all he can to make sure the campaign crosses the finish line.
Mr Ettles, who won the world masters track cycling championships last October, said: “When I was asked I said I was more than happy to help out the little lassie.
“My family has recently experienced loss as a result of cancer, and I just think the sooner Eileidh can get treatment the better.
“I hope this event can help tip the balance.”
Forres Cycling Club chairman Peter Robertson added: “One of our members suggested we do something to help towards Eileidh’s appeal, and we all agreed it was a very worthy cause.
“I’ve spoken with Gail Paterson and she was delighted when she heard about our cycle run.”
The family cycle run will start at the club’s Cumming Street base at 10.30am.
On arrival in Findhorn, cyclists will tuck into a barbecue prepared by Murdoch Brothers butchers.
Veteran cyclist Mr Ettles triumphed in the men’s 2000 metres pursuit final (50-54 years) at a championship event in Manchester last October.
The former Forres Cycling Club member had previously won Scottish, British and European championship titles.