CYCLIST Tim Mason-Desave has begun training for an epic challenge in June 2020.

Tim, who lives in Sholing and is a member of Southampton based cycling club DHC, will be taking on the infamous North Coast 500 route to raise money for local mental health charity Solent Mind as well as Breast Cancer Now.

He is aiming to finish the entire route around Scotland in just five days, tackling around 100 miles each day.

To make it even more challenging, Tim will be completing the 500 mile route completely on his own and without the back-up of a support vehicle. He will be eating and camping on the route and will need to carry all his equipment with him on his bike at all times. This will put his stamina and strength to the test as he tackles the route with its high mountain passes and long isolated sections.

The route also includes the spectacular Bealach Na Ba mountain pass which is listed as the steepest ascent of any road in the UK. The pass climbs 626 meters (2,054ft) over 9.1 km and will be a tough introduction to the Highlands on day one of the five-day challenge.

Fundraising has already begun. Southampton’s Tandem Electrical have pledged to support the challenge as a main sponsor and Fareham’s Turbocam UK have made the challenge their charity of the month for September.

To make a donation or find out more, visit gofundme.com/nc500solo