A WHEELIE kind cyclist got into top gear and helped local freemasons raise almost £1,500 for a local charity.

Marcus Humphrey House has benefited after David Bain, a member of the province of Renfrewshire West, took on a sponsored 115-mile trek on his bike - from the comfort of his own home.

The virtual journey - which David called the Lockdown Century Ride - raised £1,450 in sponsorship from fellow freemasons and supporters.

David's stay-at-home trek replaced the lodge's annual meeting, hosted by Lodge Sir Michael 989, which raises money for the Bridge of Weir facility.

He said: "I thought that the sponsored cycle would help to raise funds for Marcus Humphrey House, while keeping within the guidelines regarding the coronavirus restrictions.

"I streamed the video live on Facebook, so that any supporters of the event could check on my progress and leave me messages along the way.

"May 5 was the date that Lodge Sir Michael received its charter in 1905, so was the lodge's 115th birthday.

"As my challenge progressed, it was suggested that I may want to add on another 15 miles to my target to represent this landmark."

David's 'journey' took him five hours and 34 minutes to complete.

Then he signed off from the video and headed for a well-earned bath to rest his aching leg muscles.

David has handed over the cheque to the charity and says he is thrilled with the amount of money he has raised for a good cause.

He told the Tele: "I would like to thank each and every person who supported this event and helped to raise such a fantastic amount."