A CYCLING instructor who led the award-winning Inverclyde Bothy project through the pandemic has tragically died at the age of just 49.

Outdoor exercise enthusiast Keith Fergus kept the healthy living project on the right track during the coronavirus crisis, helping families and local residents lead healthier lives after taking up the post with Cycling UK three years ago.

The dad-of two was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and sadly lost his nine-month battle against the disease just a day short of his 50th birthday.

In a tribute, Cycling UK said: "Keith was a person who always wanted the best for the project and his commitment to be creative with ways to support people during the pandemic was striking.

"He also wished to help other members of the team with their projects and played a major role in developing our current resources used for delivering cycle training.

"Emerging from the pandemic with enthusiasm and positivity, the Bothy has become firmly established in the region as the go-to place for all things cycling and since Keith’s diagnosis in late February he remained committed to the project and would regularly want updates on how things were going."

Keith also worked as a tutor with Cycling Scotland and he delivered bikeability training to youngsters where he lived in East Renfrewshire.

During his time with Inverclyde Bothy Keith worked passionately with the community, businesses and health professionals to help people from all walks of life experience the benefits of cycling and the outdoors.

Keith was devoted to his family and he is survived by his wife Helen and his two children.