Five cyclists from Faslane-based submarine HMS Victorious are undertaking an epic bicycle ride in aid of a Helensburgh school.
Parklands School is purpose-built for pupils with complex additional support needs.
One of the school’s full-time pupils is eight-year-old Corrin Maclennan, whose father, Duncan, is a Warrant Officer serving with HMS Victorious.
“Children learn to interact with their environment through play and sensory input,” said Duncan.
“The unique kids at Parklands are unable to experience this with traditional play equipment. They require special needs equipment and unfortunately that often comes with a big price tag.
“Without the school and the amazing staff, my wife, Fiona, and I would never have seen the potential our daughter has.
“We went from a very dark place, understanding that our girl could never be at a mainstream school, to being amazed at the progress she makes daily thanks to Parklands.”
To help the school buy outdoor sensory equipment, Duncan enlisted the help of five of his crewmates: Lieutenant Ian Rutherford, Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Ally McColl, CPO Thomas Ridsdill, Petty Officer Ian Campbell and Warrant Officer2 Mark Darbyshire.
On September 13 the Victorious submariners will get on their bikes and cycle from Loch Ewe to HM Naval Base Clyde, a distance of 220 miles in just one day.
“I think the most challenging part will be cycling through the Highlands at night,” said Duncan.
“We want to arrive at Clyde on Monday afternoon so that means travelling in darkness initially. Glencoe in the last quarter of the ride will also be a psychological battle to get through.”
The team are currently in training, cycling between 200 and 300 miles a week.
“People have been very supportive, especially Helensburgh Cycles who are supplying the team with all spares that may be needed on route., continued Duncan.
“We are aiming to raise £1,000 and we’re almost half way there already.
“We really hope that people will get behind the event and give a little help to Parklands.”
To support the Victorious cyclists and donate to Parklands visit the Justgiving page.
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