A GOUROCK man is set to cycle 1,000 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats to raise money for a dementia charity in memory of his mum.

Former footballer Alan Lever who played for Greenock Juniors will push himself to the limits later during the nine day challenge in aid of Alzheimer's Scotland The retired BAE systems plater hopes to raise £2400 to help those affected by the illness and their families.

He hopes it is a fitting tribute to his mum Betty who died aged 83 two years ago, after battling dementia.

(Image: George Munro)

Alan, of Cardwell Road, said: "I want to do what I can to raise funds for the charity to help other people.

"It is such a cruel illness. The saddest thing about it all, my mum was that she worked in the dementia unit at Kempock House so she would have known what lay ahead for her when she was diagnosed.

"My mum was really committed to her job, it was a labour of love and on her days off she used to take patients out on day trips with my dad to Largs."

(Image: George Munro)

His mum was cared for latterly in the dementia unit at Kincaid Care Home in Greenock.

Previously she lived in Gateside Gardens Greenock with her late husband Neil, They had four sons.

Alan Lever and his mum Betty  (Image: George Munro)

Alan, aged 63, who played junior football for a number of clubs, decided to take on the Babble Ride Across Britain challenge, which sets off in September this year.

For nine days he will make his way north, camping overnight, before crossing the finishing line in John O'Groats.

He said: "I have cycled over the years but not seriously. Now I am training every day. I have signed up for it on my own but there are other riders in the group and I hope we will help one another along the way.

Alan's challenge starts on Saturday September 7 and is due to finish on Sunday September 15.

To support Alan's challenge visit herehttps://www.justgiving.com/page/alan-lever-1714213541853