A GOUROCK dad is in the dark over a gruelling charity challenge - as he gets set to cycle 50k through the night.

Pedal power will help Peter Lundie, a learning development partner at CalMac, beat the Nightrider event - a cycling event in the pitch black through the streets of Glasgow.

The 56-year-old father-of-three aims to raise as much money as he can for two charities which support army veterans - Erskine Care Home and Combat Stress.

He told the Tele: "I am doing the Nightrider for these charities because I was a soldier for 11 years in the local regiment the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders between 1978 and 1989.

"At the time a lot of guys had issues, but there wasn't any support there.

"Nobody recognised things like post traumatic stress disorder.

"That's why I want to support Combat Stress, because it's a great charity and I want to give something back."

Peter says that Erskine Hospital is another cause which is close to his heart.

He added: "My mother Maureen Lundie was the matron at Erskine Hospital for over 25 years.

"When I was 16, I worked at there as a porter and when I came home from the army I would pop in and visit.

"My whole family worked at Erskine at some point, so again it's nice to give something back."

Peter, who also worked as a police constable for 27 years, including eight years on the beat in Inverclyde, says he's looking forward to the challenge.

He said: "I'm up for it,

"I'm not a cyclist and I'm not doing it for a time, I just want to do it for the charities."

Peter, has three grown-up children, Peter, 30, Sara Jane, 28, and Ross, 23, and is married to Franciess, says he is grateful for everyone's support.

He added: "I'm so thankful for all the backing.

"I've had great support from CalMac, they are right behind me."

Peter will take part in the cycle on May 19.

Anyone who would like to donate can do so online at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PeterLundie