Ian hops back on bike for charities

A DUMFRIES man is hoping to hop on his bike and raise £20,000 to support local charities.

Ian Baird, 68, who lives in Kirkbean, is no stranger to cycling for a good cause with 2026 marking the retired groundworker’s tenth year of charity cycling.

Having already dedicated 6,100 miles for multiple charities, he is currently doubling that effort by cycling the distance in just 61 days.

Ian embarked on his goal of cycling 100 miles per day on his 20-mile circular route on the June 1, and aims to complete five laps daily to make up his 305 lap total.

Sharing updates on the cycle, Ian has taken to social media providing regular updates and his gratitude to local supporters.

The fundraising effort will conclude on July 31.

Recipients of the funding include Kirkbean and New Abbey Village Halls, Nith Inshore Rescue and Dumfries Young Curlers.

It follows £5713 raised to support the Oncology Unit at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, after he completed a 36-hour ride.

More information about the fundraising challenge can be found via Ian’s Go Fund Me page or via Facebook at www.facebook.com/IansBaird.