This year, the three of us - cousins united by family rather than cycling ability - are taking on the Loch Ness Etape to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

This ride is incredibly close to our hearts. Our late Grandmother, Aileen Ligertwood, who passed away in 2025, devoted a huge part of her life to fundraising for Macmillan and was instrumental in helping to set up the inaugural Loch Ness Etape as a Macmillan-led event. At the time, there were genuine concerns that no one would even turn up — yet around 60 determined cyclists took part in that very first ride. Today, the event attracts thousands of riders from across the world and sells out year after year, raising vital funds for Macmillan and becoming one of Scotland’s most iconic cycling events.

It’s probably fair to say that our preparation hasn’t quite matched that legacy. Two out of the three of us have no long-distance cycling experience, and there has been a slightly panicked scramble to acquire the bare minimum required kit - including bikes - to even make it to the start line. That said, we’re committed to seeing this through - hills, headwinds and sore legs included.

Macmillan Cancer Support is there for people living with cancer at the moments they need it most, providing vital medical, emotional, practical and financial support - not only for patients, but for their families too. From Macmillan nurses delivering specialist care, to advice services that help people navigate the realities of a cancer diagnosis, their work changes lives every day.

Taking on this challenge feels like a fitting way to honour our Grandmother’s legacy and continue a cause she cared so deeply about. Every donation, big or small, will help Macmillan continue their incredible work - and will give us a much-needed boost on the toughest climbs around Loch Ness.

Thank you so much for your support.