A WHITCHURCH cyclist is to take on a major challenge to support a charity set up in memory of a victim of the Manchester Arena attack.
Scottish-born Malcolm Thomson will be part of a six strong team from across Scotland and England who will spend seven days between Sunday, September 11 and Saturday, September 17 cycling the North Coast 500 to raise money for the Eilidh MacLeod Memorial Trust.
It is the first time has been organised for the charity with all money raised going to support the work of the charity created to ensure the 14-year-old’s musical legacy lives on.
The trust was established in memory of Eilidh, a young piper from the Isle of Barra, who died in the terrorist attack in 2017 at an Ariana Grande concert along with 21 others and it supports young musicians across Scotland and the riders will distribute grants to several youth music groups along the route to support their teaching and help create music opportunities.
Malcolm has been using Shropshire's roads and path network and other outdoor spaces to train and is grateful for the support.
He said: "I am looking forward to getting into the saddle to take on this iconic route and taking in some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery.
"It will be an exciting challenge for us all but one we are all prepared for.
"Our legs will tire but the end goal of supporting young musicians in Eilidh’s name will be the motivation we all need to keep the wheels turning.
"I am very grateful to everyone who has supported me so far to make a real difference for young musicians at this time."
Several business have supported the cycle challenge, including skincare company Ishga, haulage firm Cooper Buckley and Ravesport sportswear.
Eilidh’s Trust trustee, Iagan MacNeil said the charity has supported over 40 youth music groups across Scotland.
He added: "What better way of raising money in Eilidh’s memory than setting ourselves an immense challenge of completing the beautiful North Coast 500 in seven days.
"As a charity we have, so far, supported over 40 youth music groups across Scotland ensuring many young musicians can continue to learn and develop their skills.
"The money raised from the 500-mile cycle will help us continue Eilidh’s musical legacy through youth music across the country."
Donations to Malcolm’s North Coast 500 cycle challenge can be made via https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Malcolm-Thomson7
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