We’re getting on our bikes to go the extra mile or 52

CYCLING from Glasgow to Edinburgh is an impressive feat at any age, but when you are only eight years old it is exceptional.

Despite their young ages, Ben Somerville, eight, and nine-year-old Lewis Mackenzie are taking on the 52-mile challenge to raise money for Sport Relief.

The Craiglockhart Primary pair’s efforts come as thousands prepare to put on their running shoes for the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile tomorrow.

Money raised goes towards helping people in the UK and the world’s poorest countries.

The boys have raised more than £1600 and will be joined by their dads, Ritchie Somerville, 41, and John Mackenzie, 40. Ben’s mum, Sarah Somerville, 47, who works for the city council, said: “Originally they wanted to cycle to Glasgow and back. The idea came about because Ben was watching the Red Nose Day highlights at Christmas and said he wanted to go on a cycle to raise money.

“Lewis and Ben do a lot of cycling together, so it just went from there. We are bursting with pride, but there is also a wee bit of worry. People have been amazed at how much they have raised.”

Sarah, along with Lewis’ mum, Jenny, 40, will offer them support as they cycle along the Union Canal towpath, with the finish line close to their homes in Craiglockhart.

Ben said: “We wanted to help people who don’t have as much as we have.”

Lewis said: “Some of our friends are going to be there at the end to cheer us on.”

Participants in tomorrow’s Sport Relief mile will be joined at the start line by some well known faces, including Graeme Obree, Cat Cubie, Kenny Logan and Scott Hastings.

The route starts from outside St Giles’ Cathedral and finishes at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Kicking off the day is the final of the DHL First Nation Home for Sport Relief, a six-mile race including faces from sport and entertainment and members of the public. In Edinburgh, Team Scotland will be led by Thom Evans as they take on rival home nation teams running in London, Cardiff and Belfast.

The fun-filled day runs from 7am to 1pm.

To support Ben and Lewis, visit my.sportrelief.com/sponsor/BenandLewisBigRide