Major cycling event returns to the Highlands

The cheers of elated cyclists echoed across Loch Ness yesterday as Etape Loch Ness returned to the Highlands, attracting a record 5,600 entrants.

Official charity Macmillan Cancer Support has also shared in the success, on track to raise a total of £ 1 million from its five- year partnership with the event.

Bringing together cycling fans from across the country, the popular 66- mile sportive offers participants the rare chance to traverse the Scottish Highlands on roads free from other traffic, meaning all available spaces sold out in days.