The charity is urging people to get involved in its Cycle 300 challenge during September

Cyclists in Scotland are being urged to get on their bikes and help get life-saving research back on track after the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Cancer Research UK’s Cycle 300 challenge invites cyclists of all abilities to clock up 300 miles on a bike during September to raise vital funds for the charity’s work.

The challenge can be completed anywhere, and participants are able to split the total distance across as many rides as they wish. Homeworkers can clock up the miles on an indoor exercise bike, while friends and families can enjoy days out cycling to beauty spots.

Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK spokeswoman for Scotland, said: “Covid-19 put so much of our research on pause, leaving us facing a crisis where every day and every pound counts.

“With around 32,200 people diagnosed with cancer each year in Scotland, we will never stop striving to create better treatments. But we can’t do it alone. That’s why we are encouraging as many people as possible to sign up to Cycle 300 and use pedal power to help research move forward.”

Lisa said the challenge was a “perfect opportunity” to combine the health benefits of cycling – which can burn between 400 and 750 calories per hour - with the thrill of a challenge and sense of achievement in raising money for a great cause.

“It’s a great fundraising challenge because you can choose how, when and where to do it, to fit in with your lifestyle and commitments,” she added.

“Every mile counts, whether you choose long rides through the rolling countryside or clocking up miles on an exercise bike in front of the TV.”

Free fundraising packs are available on the Cancer Research UK website.