Staff nurse Alex Russell (42) plans to cycle the Fife coastal path from the Tay Bridge to the Forth Bridge — a distance of about 81 miles — with two friends on September 27.

The funds raised will go to support the hospital's League of Friends, a group which buys extra items not provided by NHS Fife.

Alex cycled as a child, but only returned to the sport about five years ago.

"I do cycle round about the roads regularly, but I've never done anything sponsored," he said.

The trip came about after Friends' chairperson Mary Spence sought fundraising ideas for the group, with the bikers deciding on a coastal ride a few weeks ago.

Alex estimated the distance would take about eight hours to cover on mountain bikes and felt the coastal terrain would be manageable, even if the bikes might need to be carried at some points.

The three riders do not intend to be deterred by unfavourable weather, although "if it's blowing a hurricane we'll put it off until the next fair day."

Alex said the League of Friends really made a difference to the comfort of people he cared for in the hospital.

"They do a good job for us to provide luxuries for patients."

Anyone wishing to support the ride can make a donation via the sponsorship sheets available at Adamson Hospital.