Pals take on cycling challenge for Eireann

Two best pals decided to hit the saddle as part of a gruelling cycle challenge to fund a special safe space at home for a Whins of Milton youngster.

- STUART MCFARLANE

Warm welcome There were homemade banners from some of the youngsters as the pair came over the line in Stirling

The Observer reported last month on the story of little Eireann MacFarlane, who has been diagnosed with a duplication of the FDXL 16 gene - a condition which affects only five other children on the planet.

Since the heartbreaking news, her family have launched an effort to raise £10,000 for the build of a specially constructed room at her home which would be able to meet her complex needs.

The fundraising effort has been ongoing, with several successful events run to raise funds - but one particularly punishing effort came to a glorious conclusion at King’s Park in Stirling on Sunday.

Craig McLachlan, 29, the partner of Eireann’s sister Nicole Hunter, vowed to do his bit for the family, with the idea of putting his enjoyment of cycling to good use.