Kevin Beck, left, and Stuart Welsh prepare to set off on their challenge. Photo: John Muir Trust

A pair of Ayrshire adventurers aim to tackle the national Three Peaks Challenge using only muscle power, to raise cash for a conservation charity.

Kevin Beck and Stuart Welsh will attempt to summit Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis – and cycle between the mountains.

Proceeds from the men’s challenge, which involves 800km (500 miles) of riding as well as 3,350m (11,000ft) of ascent, will go to the John Muir Trust, the conservation group that cares for some of Scotland’s wild lands and campaigns for their protection.

Kevin, 38 from Irvine, and Stuart, 44 from Darvel, are both custodial officers working for Serco, based in East Kilbride.

Mr Beck said: “Usually when people do this challenge they have a support van along with them. We thought it would be more interesting to do it solo.

“We have been training hard over the past month. I’ve done cycling events where you have to cover 60 miles in a day, but this is the first time either of us has done anything as epic as this. It’s going to take a lot of stamina.

“I spend a lot of my spare time in the outdoors, and I’m passionate about the beautiful landscapes I see around Scotland so the John Muir Trust seemed a natural choice to benefit from our challenge. It feels like we’re giving something back.”

The men will set off up Snowdon on tomorrow, Friday, and aim to raise at least £500 for the trust. Their goal is to summit Ben Nevis on 4 September.