More than 700 cyclists have taken part in a gruelling challenge through the east of Scotland to raise vital funds for two Edinburgh-based charities.
Participants, including individuals, professional and amateur groups, kicked off the 97.3km race on Sunday morning crossing the Forth Road Bridge, before pedalling through Fife, West Lothian and then dashing to the finish line at Ingliston.
A proportion of the funds raised are divided between Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids, which provides essential support to young people in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife, disadvantaged through poverty or disability; and global organisation Mercy Corps, which works in 40 countries to help people survive crises, build better lives and transform their communities for good.
This year’s donations are still being counted, but organisers are confident of smashing the total of £54,000 raised after 2017’s race.
Emma Kemp, Charity Manager at Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids, said: “The money raised by Radio Forth’s Cash for Kids is spent right here in Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife, so it’s a huge honour to witness the commitment everyone makes to help the charity.
“The Tour de Forth is becoming a staple part of the cycling calendar with more and more individuals and groups from right across the country taking part. We’re thrilled to be involved and incredibly grateful to everyone who put their heart and soul into making this year’s event such a success.”
Sarah Pope, Community Fundraising and Engagement Officer at Mercy Corps, said: “The enthusiasm we’ve witnessed this year from all of the participants is truly inspiring. Despite the route being so tough, everyone involved – including the organisers and volunteers behind the scenes – had huge smiles on their faces.
“Thanks to the hard work and generosity of the riders, Mercy Corps will be able to use the money raised to support some of the world’s most vulnerable people. It will help us not only provide for urgent needs in countries like Syria or Yemen, but will help us to ensure people can thrive, even in the most challenging environments.”
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