Young Leland brothers from Forres complete 50-mile challenge for Thistle Boxer Rescue charity
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
TWO young brothers cycled from Forres to Grantown and back to raise money for charity.
Inspired by their dog Kia, Michael (13) and Leland (9) McInnes-Main completed the 50-mile challenge from their house in Thornhill, raising a total of £336 for the Thistle Boxer Rescue charity.
Proud mum Claire said: "The boys did fab! They are delighted and grateful to everyone who sponsored them as this helped keep them motivated. They both said they would like to do more for charity in future.
"We are happy for them and with the support they got which was amazing."
The Forres Academy and Anderson's Primary pupils initially followed the route through the woods via the Dava Way but wet conditions forced them to eventually cycle on the main Grantown road instead.
The entire journey took around seven hours, including refuelling stops.
Leland said: "I was a bit nervous as I'm not used to being out on the roads. The worst part was when the cars passed by really fast."
Michael said: "The most difficult part was the woods as it they were very wet with fallen trees and we struggled to get through. Overall though, I loved it as we went ways we had never been before.
"We're proud that we managed to do this as it was all for a good cause."
Both boys enjoyed seeing the Scurrypool Bridge at Altyre which they plan on visiting again soon.
Claire said: "Leland seemed to be the one with the most energy and wanted to go out on his bike later that day because he had only done 47 miles, not 50! He said one day he will do more big cycles like his uncle Roddy."