Challenge to bike and boat the Hebrides

Phil Smith, supported on the ride by a fellow cycling enthusiast friend, is taking on the challenge of traversing the Inner and Outer Hebrides from Gourock to Garve at the end of April to raise money for two charities.

Phil recently pledged to raise funds for Taylan’s Project (www.taylansproject.com) having been humbled by the amazing efforts of his friends Andy and Figen Rawlinson since losing their eldest son Taylan to a brain tumour, in 2009, at the age of 7.

Brian tumors can strike at any age and the harsh reality of the illness was brought home to Phil even more directly when his Mum, Joyce, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2013; she lost her battle in late 2014, aged 70.

Joyce spent her last weeks in the Marie Curie Hospice Glasgow, where the care and support of the staff was truly wonderful. The money collected from the trip will be split 50/50 between Brain Tumour Research (the charity that Taylan’s Project raises funds for) and Marie Curie.

Phil’s cycling buddy Mark is also helping on the fundraising side. His employer, Barclays, has kindly offered to match what he raises, up to £1,000 (this extra contribution will go to Marie Curie).

If all goes according to plan the duo will reach Stornoway on May 3rd to catch the ferry to Ullapool.

If you would like to support this Hebridean fundraising effort you can donate at: website

Here are Phil and Mark following a training run to get ready for the challenge.