Dundonians are gearing up for a wheely good time this weekend as the annual cyclathon kicked off outside the V&A.
Dundee’s own Martel Maxwell will be getting back in the saddle with her three sons for this year’s event, which will raise money for the STV Children’s Appeal.
Martel, known for her work on Homes Under the Hammer, will be taking part in the event this year.
She said: “Whether you are five or 75 or older, you can help, have fun and get fit at the same time, when you pedal to support the one in four children living in poverty in Scotland.
“They are struggling to cope with life and desperately need a helping hand right now.
“Many parents are having to make heart braking decisions on whether to feed the family or heat their house.
“So, hop on your bike, have fun and enjoy cycling around Dundee to raise money for our kiddies affected by poverty.
“Let us all show them that we care.”
Fundraising for Children’s Appeal
Organised by the Rotary Club of Claverhouse, the event will be running as a virtual one this year.
People have entered as individuals, groups, clubs, schools, and colleges and universities.
All funds raised will go towards the STV Children’s Appeal.
One in four children in Scotland currently live in poverty – a figure which is drastically growing due to the Covid pandemic.
The appeal supports these children through a number of programmes, which include supporting food insecurity and mental health programmes.
Cyclists will set their own targets of how far and where they would like to cycle – including indoors on exercise bikes – between September 5 to 19.
Ian Balgowan, Cyclathon organiser, said: “You can cycle where and how far you want, either in one go or spread across different days over the two week period.
“Cycle outdoors on your bike or indoors on your exercise bike. Just do your own thing! It’s up to you!
“It can be even more fun if you cycle with friends or family and have a good blether as you travel.”
He added: “Child poverty has worsened with the effects of the pandemic. So we want this year’s Cyclathon to be the best year yet.
“Dundee folk are legendary for always helping each other out in a crisis and so, come on Dundee – we can do it!”