A team from RAF Lossiemouth have swapped fighter jets for push bikes for a charity challenge that will take them around some of the most scenic parts of the north-east.
The 18 RAF personnel were inspired to take on the four-day cycle by the the North East 250 – a road trip designed to showcase the very best of Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray.
The riders, who are of mixed ability and experience at road cycling, set off from RAF Lossiemouth yesterday, and aim to be back on Thursday after covering between 50 and 80 miles a day.
Along their 250-mile journey, the bikers will meet air cadets and their families in Aberdeen, stop to meet service veterans at the British Legion Club in Banchory and take on the gruelling 5,347ft climb between Balmoral and the Lecht.
The cyclists aim to raise £5,000 for Outfit Moray and Cash for Kids.
Squadron Leader Jonathan “DJ” Greenhowe, who is leading the group, said: “Everyone in the team lives and works in the area so we know how wonderful a place the north-east of Scotland is, but we also know the terrain that makes it so appealing will make this 250 mile cycle challenge tough going for us.
“We all see it as an adventure that will fulfil some personal goals and raise funds for charities that help the children and youth of Moray.
“And in the RAF’s centenary year, along the way we are hoping to celebrate and commemorate the RAF’s first 100 years, and inspire those we meet.”
To donate visit www.cashforkidsgive.co.uk and search for Team Lossie 250.