Sibling rivarly on hold for charity cycle race

TWO emergency service siblings will undertake a 185-mile cycle to raise funds for the hospice that cared for their mum.

Christopher Adams, a Scottish Ambulance Service Paramedic based in Stornoway, and his brother, John, a retained firefighter also in Stornoway, will compete in the three-day event – Butt to Barra - starting on July 9.

The event involves cycling across nine islands in the Outer Hebrides, starting at the southern tip of the archipelago, on the island of Vatersay, and ends at the Butt of Lewis.

Christopher said all money they raise will go towards the Bethesda Hospice with all sibling rivalry will be “put on hold for the cause”.

He added: “My brother and I chose to do the cycle this year as our mother, Greta, unexpectedly became a resident in the hospice and their incredible care to her and the numerous other residents was truly touching. We felt we owed it to mum to raise money for the brilliant staff.

Christopher said training has been a “steep learning curve”, adding: “Neither of us are cyclists, so it's been many hours of bottom and body ache getting used to the harsh roads and saddles.”

“We've played football against each other a few times and in charity matches between emergencies services vs the Fire Service locally. I think in this instance sibling rivalry is on hold and it's about survival although I've no doubt they'll be times when we push each other and times where we 'race'.”

You can support their cause here: John Adams is fundraising for Bethesda Hospice