Two Tranent men are preparing to embark on a mammoth cycle that will take them from Land’s End to John O’Groats next month.

David Allan and Brian Fraser, who both work for Bank of Scotland, are taking on the challenge alongside 20 other Lloyds Banking Group colleagues from across the UK to raise money for Alzheimer Scotland and Alzheimer’s Society.

For David, the 900-mile cycle is personal.

He said: “Since a close family member was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s last November, I have been looking for ways to raise awareness about this condition.

“I really believe in the good work the Live Well Campaign is doing to ensure that the right support and guidance is available to those whose lives are touched by dementia in whatever way, shape or form.

“The Ride Across Britain challenge is therefore a great way to combine my love of cycling with raising the profile of Alzheimer Scotland.” The group are looking to complete the cycle in just nine days and are hoping to raise £100,000 for the charities.

The pair have been training hard in preparation for their departure on September 6, and 39-year-old Brian, is also looking forward to the challenge.

He said: “I look forward to undertaking a personal challenge that will not only be highly rewarding on a personal level, but will directly benefit the lives of many people across the country, from those living with dementia to their carers and loved ones.

“This will be the fifth time I have taken part in a team cycling event with colleagues from the group and I am proud to support such a worthy cause.” Catherine Thomas, head of fundraising at Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are delighted that David and Brian will be riding across Britain to support Alzheimer Scotland. As a charity, we rely on the generosity of people like them to continue our vital work.

“Their fantastic efforts will not only prepare for an unforgettable challenge of a lifetime, but will also help us champion the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.” The duo have raised more than £7,500 of their target so far, with over a month to go until their departure.

To sponsor either David or Brian, you can visit their fundraising sites, www.justgiving.com/david-allan6 and www.justgiving.com/RAB-Brian