Leigh Centurions owner, Derek Beaumont, will embark on the Ultimate Highland Cycling Challenge this Friday, tackling over 500 miles and scaling gruelling ascents totalling 34,000 ft in just five days to raise vital money for charity.

Beaumont, who will undertake the challenge alongside Gary Molloy, Miles Dewhurst and Andy Mair from Leigh Centurions’ sponsors Leisure Resorts, are riding for two charities very close to their hearts – Cancer Research UK and Leisure Resorts’ 2020 charity partner, Candlelighters – and are hoping to raise a much needed £20,000.

Beaumont – along with Gary Molloy, Miles Dewhurst and Andy Mair – will set off on Saturday from Inverness, and then cycle to Sheildaig, Ullapool, Durness and Altnaharra before returning to Inverness on the final day.

The Centurions owner said: “I am reaching out in the hope that fans would kindly consider offering some much-needed support, not just to the four of us, but moreover for these amazing causes.

“Their urge to get on to their saddles to raise valuable funds that will contribute positively towards the fight against cancer and help support numerous families, proved far too great and having recently got into cycling myself, albeit only a couple of months ago, I upped my training and took the decision to join them.

“Not only have these and so many other amazing charities been starved of fundraising opportunities as a result of COVID, but moreover, recent circumstance has unfortunately seen both mine and Gary’s families witness first-hand the full and brutal impact of cancer leaving us completely devastated. For me personally the bike provided an escape and has helped me return to functioning more normal.

“Any and all donations will be gratefully received and the monies given will be split equally between both charities.”

To make a donation to Beaumont’s fundraising efforts, click here.