​Only "serious riders" need apply

Three leading Scottish children’s charities have joined have launched what they believe is the toughest cycling event of its kind.

The Iron Ride, which will take place in Tayside on 20 September, has been set up to raise funds for Aberlour, CHAS and CLIC Sargent.

Backed by Olympic and Commonwealth Games coaching team, Mark McKay and Brynley Davies, the event is being sponsored by Alpine Bikes and is aimed towards serious cyclists.

Riders can choose from three distances: Titanium, 180km; Steel, 130km or Aluminium, 80km.

Each route features 23% gradient hills and sets off from Errol Airfield to take in parts of Perthshire, Tayside and Angus.

Having ridden the route, I assure you that it represents a good challenge for serious cyclists - Mark McKay

The finishing point is back at Errol Airfield, where there will be an event village featuring food and drink stalls and activities for spectators.

Mark and Brynley will be offering a number of exclusive training camp opportunities for riders.

Mark said: “Having ridden the route, I assure you that it represents a good challenge for serious cyclists and a great day in the saddle, whichever of the three routes you go for.

“Not only are the views spectacular, the roads are good and there are some great climbs in there making this a tough event.

“We are looking forward to the Iron Ride, and in turn helping raise funds for three great charities – Aberlour, CHAS and CLIC Sargent. We will be there on the day and will have our support vehicle operating.”

Entry to the Iron Ride is £55 and riders are asked to raise a further £50 in sponsorship to take part with all profits shared between the partner charities.