Entries open for this year’s fresh'n'lo Pedal for Scotland, the Glasgow to Edinburgh bike ride on September 13th, and Maggie's Centres are delighted to announce that we will be the official charity for 2009!

Chewin’ the Fat and Still Game star, Ford Kiernan, got on his bike to encouarge people across Scotland to sign up for this year’s fresh'n'lo Pedal for Scotland bike ride and raise money for Maggie’s. Ford has supported Maggie's for a number of years and he was in top form as he launched the event.

“I am really pleased today to launch this fantastic Scottish event which will raise thousands for a truly worthwhile charity, Maggie’s Centres.  I have visited Maggie’s Centres on a number of occasions and each time I am blown away by the welcoming and uplifting environment.  There is tremendous practical and emotional support taking place in various rooms throughout Maggie’s Centres and then at the hub of the facility is a kitchen, where the banter and laughter is truly infectious.  Plus, there is always a great cup of brew and a biscuit. 

"I know how valued these Centres are in their communities and it’s therefore important that everyone does what they can to support Maggie’s.  So go on, get on yer bike for Maggie’s.   Young, old, fit, couch-potato, it doesn’t matter – you can get on the saddle and pedal your way to improved fitness and wellbeing, whilst knowing that each turn of the wheel is helping families affected by cancer.“

The 55 mile ride, which takes place on Sunday 13th September, beginning at Glasgow Green and finishing at Victoria Park in Edinburgh, takes in some of Scotland’s historic landmarks and stunning scenery along the way. With over 5,000 taking part last year, this year is set to be even bigger. Riders don’t need to be super fit or have a fancy bike to take part – they just need to be up for the challenge!

Last year, participants of all ages took part, so the whole family can join in. This year the event is introducing iconic Scottish brand, fresh'n'lo, as its new headline sponsor. The UK’s first low fat milk has a proud history of supporting mass participation events, including the Great Scottish Run. A nutritional family favourite, fresh'n'lo is the perfect partner for the country’s biggest bike ride.

Pedal for Scotland was established by Cycling Scotland in 1998 to promote cycling as a healthy lifestyle choice and is now Scotland’s biggest bike ride. There are regular rest stops, free snacks and entertainment along the route making it the perfect way to enjoy the countryside, stay fit and have fun.

So dig out your bike, dust down the saddle and sign up to cycle across for Scotland for Maggie's. This is the best and biggest events of it's kind and everyone at Maggie's is excited to be part of it.

If you have any questions don't hesitate to contact our events team on 0141 341 5665.

Pedal for Scotland is organised by Cycling Scotland. For more information or to register please visit www.pedalforscotland.org.