A group of energy workers are embarking on a massive fundraising challenge as they do their bit to bring a life-saving charity helicopter to the north-east.
Six Asco employees will team up to cycle 200 miles each on an epic journey from the company’s supply base in Great Yarmouth to its Dyce headquarters.
If all goes to plan, they will pedal the 600 miles in less than 50 hours.
They are embarking on the exhausting mission to raise money for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA), and the Friends of Anchor cancer charity.
The cash given to SCAA, which has one helicopter based in Perthshire, will ultimately be used to purchase another machine and they hope that it will be located in Aberdeen.
Politicians from across the north and north-east have argued the case to bring the second copter to the region, backed by The Press and Journal and grateful residents who have experienced its help.
Stephen Mundie, a keen triathlete, helped to put the trip together with his colleagues and they will all wear bright SCAA and Freinds of Anchor vests on the journey.
He explained that they were aware of the charity air ambulance because of the role it played in coming to the rescue of Torphins doctor, Neil Campbell, when he crashed from his bicycle and faced losing his leg unless he received immediate help.
Mr Mundie said: “Staff nominate charities for Asco to take on every year, and this year we picked SCAA and Friends of Anchor.
“We hope to raise £5,000 through the cycle, which will be split between the two.
“A lot of our employees take part in activities like hill walking and climbing in remote areas, so knew all about SCAA as its helicopter often flies to rural emergencies.”
Three of the cyclists taking part are seasoned long-distance cyclists whereas three are budding amateurs who have taken advantage of recent sunny weather to increase their training.
They will take it in turns of riding in pairs for two hours at a time, before having four hours of rest in between.
There will be a yoga instructor on board an accompanying minibus to help soothe any aches and pains as the cycle takes its toll.
When they arrive in Dyce, they will be greeted at a fun day being arranged by Asco.