The Borders Loop Cycle Challenge team, which raised £10,000 last year, aims to top the amount when it takes on the testing route beginning in Kelso at 8am on Sunday 20th September.

This year’s 50-strong group of amateur cyclists, which is double last year’s number, was put together by Ewen Fleming of accountants Grant Thornton and Scott Maxwell from recruitment firm Hudson.

After leaving Kelso, their route takes them through some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery and several Borders towns and villages - including Duns, Grantshouse, Eyemouth, Ayton, Norham and Coldstream - and then back to finish in Kelso 8 or 9 hours later. The route also includes a stamina and muscle-busting ascent of almost 2,000 metres.

For less-experienced cyclists, the Challenge team has introduced a 50-mile route this year.

Cycle team leader from Grant Thornton, Ewen Fleming, said: “With a much bigger group of riders this year we hope to raise more than the £10,000 we achieved last year. Every penny raised will go to Shelter Scotland to continue their invaluable work in tackling the housing crisis and supporting some of the most vulnerable people and families in our society.”

Graeme Brown, director of Shelter Scotland, added: “We are very grateful to Grant Thornton and Hudson for once more putting this team together and choosing to raise valuable funds for Shelter Scotland. We thank them for their support and generosity and wish all the cyclists the best of luck.”

The team has set up a Just Giving account.

@shelterscotland