Greater Glasgow

Eye-catching bikes inspire Glasgow's Mini Monster Challengers

A bicycle made for three - complete with three-seater couch, standard lamp and cat - and a bicycle made for two where the cyclists face away from each other were just two of the quirky and eye-catching bike designs displayed by FirstGroup today (Wednesday 10 June) ahead of the First Mini Monster Challenge at Pollok Park this Sunday (14 June).

Representatives from the city's biggest bus operator, First in Glasgow, gave the unique bikes a try in an effort to inspire participants for this year's Glasgow Mini Monster Challenge, which comprises two bike and run relay races " one for families and one for adults, so are ideal for all ages and fitness levels.

The bikes, borrowed from charity Common Wheel, have all been constructed from recycled parts and are available for sale.

Gerry Irvine from First's Service Delivery Manager said: The bikes we have on loan from the Common Wheel charity are fantastic and really great fun. The 'couch bike' in particular is a great idea and, who knows, it might encourage our competitors to do something different when they run and cycle around Pollok Park this Sunday. Although we are not quite turning the Mini Monster Challenge into an episode of Wacky Races, it would be fun to see a few people in fancy dress or cycling on weird and wonderful bikes like the ones we have here today."

First's Emma Latimer, who tried out the 'back-to-back' tandem with Gerry, said: "The way the bikes have been designed is ingenious - who would have thought that two people could pedal in opposite directions and get the bike moving forward. I wish my team had use of this bike at last year's Mini Monster - we might have got around the course in half the time!"

In the Mini Monster family race, teams of four complete two running sections, each 1.5km long, and two 5km cycling sections. In the adult event, teams of four also take on two runs and two cycles - 3km and 10km respectively. In both races, each team member completes one leg only.

If Common Wheel's unusual designs are inspiring you to get on your bike - however it looks(!) - there is still time to register for this Sunday's event. Entry is only £5 per person (or £20 per team) and 25 percent of the entry fee will be donated to First's charity partner, Save the Children. Teams are also encouraged to raise funds for their chosen charities. For more information, log on to www.firstmonster.com.

Douglas Hamilton, Head of Scotland at Save the Children said: "We're really looking forward to this Sunday's First Mini Monster in Glasgow and the idea of unusual bikes will add a unique element to the whole event!

"Monster competitors raised more than £110,000 for Save the Children in 2008. Both the First Mini Monsters and the original First Monster Challenge in Inverness seem to be going from strength to strength " we are very optimistic that last year's total will be bettered.

"All the money raised for Save the Children from the Glasgow event will be spent on our work across the UK with some of the most vulnerable children to ensure they get the best start in life. I hope everyone enjoys the First Mini Monster and helps raise vital funds for Save the Children."

Glasgow is one of five cities throughout the UK hosting a First Mini Monster Challenge this year. Aberdeen has already staged an event, while Leeds, Manchester and Bristol will host one shortly.