Moray's MSP Richard Lochhead taking on Cancer Research UK's Cycle 300 challenge
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MORAY'S MSP Richard Lochhead is set to take part in Cancer Research UK's Cycle 300 challenge this month to raise much-needed funds for the charity.
Mr Lochhead, a keen cyclist, will peddle 300 miles as part of the challenge – and is asking his constituents to support him, and Cancer Research UK, as he does so.
Cancer Research UK funds around half of all the United Kingdom's cancer research. The charity's funds have taken a hit during lockdown.
Mr Lochhead, who is minister for further education, higher education and science, said: "Charities like Cancer Research UK fund extremely valuable research.
"Unfortunately, our medical research charities have lost tens of millions of pounds due to a lack of fundraising – for obvious reasons as a lot of events that allow people to get sponsorship have been cancelled.
"Clearly, cancer is something many people are familiar with. Many have lost loved ones and relatives to cancer.
"Cancer Research UK organised this event and, as it was cycling, I thought I would get involved.
"I'm a bit out of shape. I haven't done as much cycling as I wanted to this summer but it's an important issue to get behind.
"Moray is perfect for this kind of cycling, I'm often seen on the roads around Lossie, Hopeman, Burghead, Forres and Pluscarden and plan to take a few dips into Speyside as well."
Mr Lochhead's relationship with cancer is a personal one – with his wife having survived breast cancer.
Moray's SNP MSP said that had shown him just how much hard work goes into helping those dealing with the illness.
He added: "My wife's experience gave me the opportunity to recognise the work charities carry out to help patients.
"Every day in Scot we have people working hard to find treatments and cures for cancers and other conditions. Without that research, we wouldn't be where we are today."
Shortly after his wife overcame cancer, Mr Lochhead raised a significant amount of funds for Macmillan Cancer.
He was awarded the green jersey at the Etape Loch Ness after raising nearly £10,000 for the same charity.
Mr Lochhead added: "That was all down to the generosity of the constituents and people across Scotland.
"Anyone that lives in Moray knows we have a large number of causes locally and many individuals and organisations that raise for many different charities.
"This is an opportunity for me to make a small contribution. All support is gratefully received as I slog my way through the 300 miles."
You can support Mr Lochhead and Cancer Research UK here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/richardlochhead300 .
