MEMBERS, staff and volunteers at a mental health hub in Helensburgh showed their pedal power during a fundraising challenge in Millport.
Locals involved with Jean's Bothy headed to the island of Great Cumbrae on September 3 to complete the 10.5 mile challenge in a bid to raise much needed funds for mental health support back home.
The hub, which is a joint initiative delivered by Argyll and Bute health and social care partnership and Enable Scotland, has been providing help and advice in the Helensburgh area since it opened in East King Street in 2018.
The group were delighted to have over 40 people take on the challenge with 31 cyclists - the biggest yet- completing the full distance.
A spokesperson for Jean’s Bothy said: “We always get such brilliant support from the local community both in Helensburgh and Millport itself, this year was no different and we would like to give a huge thank you to all those who supported us.
"There was a great sense of achievement for all those who took part and the weather was also kind to us too”
One of the members making this trip this year was Chloe Cairns, who shared her experience of the challenge.
She said: “Cycling round the island was so beautiful and scenic, it’s something I never thought I’d achieve but the trip was so inclusive and supportive. I’m so proud of myself for completing it. Cannot wait till next year."
Helensburgh Lions Club kindly donated the cost of the coach this year, and M Harrison Roofing contributed towards the costs of the bike hire.
"With our numbers rising year on year we want to make sure we can continue to grow this annual challenge and with ongoing support such as this we can see it getting bigger and better each year."
A survey on cycling and mental health by Cycleplan found that 75 per cent of respondents reported a boost to their mental health after cycling.
As a member of Jean’s Bothy, there will be plenty cycling opportunities coming up over the next year with Cycling UK and Helensburgh Cycles.
Membership is open to everyone over age 16 who live in Helensburgh and Lomond.
For more information email jeansbothy@enable.org.uk or call 07542226390.
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