Bob Stewart, 74, took on the Chris Hoy Tour de 4 Challenge, cycling the 57 mile red route for charity.

The challenge was set up by Sir Chris Hoy, the six-time Olympic champion, following his diagnosis with stage four cancer.

As previously reported in the Press, the cause is close to Bob’s heart, after his son Andrew was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2006.

Sadly, Andrew passed away just 12 days after his diagnosis at the age of 15. Bob’s mother, Effie Stewart (Cullen) also passed from leukaemia.

Then in 2010, Bob himself was diagnosed with the disease.

Bob raised over £2600 for Blood Cancer UK. (Image: Contributed)

Speaking to the Press, Bob said: “I completed the 57 mile hilly red route, cycling every inch of the route. I passed a number of people on the steep hill, some walking and some cycling; I was on my electric bike though.

“I did the ‘Tak ma Doon’ section in 25 mins, my fastest time in my five attempts, over the previous two months of training.

“The route went over the Campsies and involved climbing 3546 feet in total.

“I enjoyed the day, despite starting in the rain, but the weather eased and dried up in the afternoon.  I spoke to a few riders, including a guy who had come from Jersey to take part!”

He cycled for five hours, but the challenge took him six and a half hours in total as Bob made stops at the feed stations.

“I have raised £2660 this year for Blood Cancer UK and last year I raised £1900, so I am delighted with my sponsorship.

“Big thanks to all my sponsors, family,  friends, acquaintances, fellow bridge players from Scotland, England and even Australia! Their support kept me training and helped me to complete the event,” Bob said.

The GoFundMe page for Bob’s challenge is still open for donations.