In May 2018 an intrepid group of 25 will undertake one of the most gruelling challenges in the UK by cycling the North Coast 500 trail to raise money for the University of Aberdeen's world-class centre for cancer research. The challenge will see the group cycle the full 500 miles of the route over nine days while tackling a number of the toughest roads in the UK, including the stunning, dramatic but notorious Bealach na Bà towards Applecross which rises 2,053 feet in just 5.6 miles with gradients of 20% in places.

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Among those joining the University's Head of the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Professor Steve Heys, to take on the challenge are cycling hero and adventurer Mark Beaumont and STV journalist and cancer survivor Anne Smith, along with colleagues from the University, the NHS and a number of friends.

During the challenge the group will hold cancer awareness-raising events in Inverness, Ullapool and Wick. These will showcase how the University intends to transform cancer research in the north of Scotland and give guests the opportunity to learn more about Aberdeen's unique approach to fighting cancer while hearing the stories of survivors who will be supporting the challenge. Our plans to develop a centre for cancer research in Aberdeen will save and improve countless lives. Our scientists are already at the leading edge in a range of different cancer specialisms but we can do so much more. Our £4.5 million fundraising appeal will accelerate vital research to improve how cancer is diagnosed and treated - and critically, how it can be prevented.

The challenge is being launched on 10th January at Aberdeen Sports Village and we will follow the group's progress during their preparation and as they take on their trip here in the coming months.