MUIRKIRK and Sorn were just two of the stops on the route of the annual Braveheart Cycling Event at the weekend that had a flying visit from Olympic hero Sir Chris Hoy.

The event took place on Saturday October 31 in the heart of East Ayrshire. Almost 1,000 cyclists braved the elements to take part in the fantastic event which helps support upcoming young cyclists.

Tour de France stage winner Steve Cummings was there to lead the cyclists off from St Joseph’s Leisure Centre in Kilmarnock. Participants set out to tackle the elements, taking part in either a 24 or 52 mile cycle travelling through various East Ayrshire towns including Galston and Newmilns as well as Sorn and Muirkirk.

The final participants returned tired and soaked from their adventure by 4pm to be welcomed by crowds of supporters.

The race itself was won by youth Harry Johnston of ‘Pro Vision Cycle Clothing’ who completed his trip in an impressive 2 hours, 26 minutes and 26 seconds.

After the hard work of the cycle event, the evening saw Kilmarnock’s Park Hotel play host to the 2015 Braveheart Fundraising Dinner. Hosted by Orla Chennaoui, this sell out event saw more than 400 people taking part in this glamorous evening which celebrated a host of cycling talent.

Braveheart Patron Sir Chris Hoy made an evening appearance to show his support for all those involved. The event saw Sir Chris present the award for ‘Braveheart Cyclist of the Year’ to youngster Grant Ferguson from Dooleys Cycle Racing Team.

With total amounts still to be confirmed, the money raised from the evening’s raffles, auction and fundraising cycle will go towards helping Scotland’s future cycling champions.