A Fairlie couple are learning all things cycling to prepare for their charity bike ride around a popular Scottish coastline.
Husband and wife team Paul and Seo Tonner are teaming up with Jodie Mcpherson and Natasha McBean, all from St Vincent's Consulting, to strap on their helmets to cycle around the Isle of Bute's southern shores in a matter of weeks.
The enthusiastic team of four are raising money for two charities close to their hearts - Mental Health Innovations and Second Chance Dog Rescue.
Seo said: "St. Vincent’s is an amazing company that loves giving back. We work with the NHS and I think that always reminds us of the bigger picture because there’s a real compassionate and human element to working within healthcare.
"We used to do a lot of charity work but then Covid hit, and it took a back seat. We were determined to start it back up again and give back to some incredible causes.
"One of our consultants Tasha got her dog Cleo through Second Chance Dog Rescue and she has had such a good experience. The dog had a hard life before, so it is lovely to be able to give them a second home and chance at life again.
"It made such a positive difference to Tasha's life, so it was a no brainer that we needed to support this charity."
Natasha said: "They have saved hundreds of dogs including our lovely Cleo, who was found dumped on the streets of Egypt.
"She was left for days covered in ticks, being hit by cars and attacked by street dogs. Thanks to the amazing people at Second Chance, she was taken off the streets, treated for diseases and placed in a safe kennel.
"She then made the long journey to her forever home with us in Troon in February, and we already don't know what we'd do without her."
Seo continued: "The second charity, Mental Health Innovations, provides a text service called Shout. It’s a real lifeline to people with mental health issues, especially those who don’t feel comfortable receiving support in other ways.
"I know many people close to my heart who battle with mental health. The more resources you can have out there to access support, the better.
"Also, St. Vincent’s is a digital consultancy, so we love to work with technology in creative and innovative ways to improve patient outcomes. So, the fact that Shout uses technology to help others really appealed to us and seemed like the natural choice."
The crew from the Glasgow-based firm are now doing all the practice before they embark on the 32-mile cycle on August 29.
"We wanted to do something that was achievable, but still a challenge", Seo admitted.
"My husband has a friend who lives over there if we need any help. I also know there is a bike shop if we are in emergency; however, I think the best thing we can all do is stay optimistic and excited about our challenge!
"None of us are experienced cyclists but we will give it our best attempt for charity and have fun along the way.
"We have now had a 20-mile practice cycle which went very well. It has definitely boosted our confidence for the real thing. I know Tasha has been jumping on her bike and cycling the cycle path from Troon to Prestwick and I’ve been doing a spin class every week.
"We would hugely appreciate everyone who would like to support us. It really would mean a lot as these are causes that are special to us.
"They support both humans and pets in different but incredible ways."
For more information or to donate to the fundraiser visit their JustGiving page by searching Seonaid Tonner.
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