PLUCKY pedal pushers are saddling up for a leg aching 51-mile cycle in aid of charity.

The ‘Five Ferries Challenge’ will see people of all ages and abilities team up to travel 51 miles from Wemyss Bay to Ardrossan in aid of the Greenock-based sail training charity Ocean Youth Trust. 

Doro Weber, the charity’s fundraising events officer, is urging people to sign up to the event.

She said: “We’re really keen to get as many people on their bikes as possible.

“This event is suitable for people who have never cycled that distance before, so it will be a great challenge and a fantastic day out in the saddle.

“One of our volunteers is going to be driving a support van so if anyone needs a wee rest or a cup of tea or help going up a hill, then he’ll be there.

“We finish in Brodick where there will be a big barbecue and people’s families and friends are invited to come along.”

The event involves five ferry crossings and takes in the Isle of Bute, Cowal Peninsula and Kintyre before the final leg.

One of the participants is Curly Mills, 76, who is a patron of the charity alongside his wife Barbara.

He told the Tele he is thrilled to support such a worthwhile cause.

Curly said: “The Ocean Youth Trust introduces people to the coasts and islands of the west of Scotland, which is arguably one of the world’s best sailing areas.

“It also puts them in an environment where they need to listen to those in authority and pay attention to stay safe.

“It also gives them serious responsibility for their own safety and for the safety of others and they have to function as a team.”

To join the event on May 21, visit www.entrycentral.com/fiveferries or call 722722.