A 66-MILE cycling circuit of Loch Ness has raised more than £800 to buy feminine hygiene products for girls in south east Africa.

Tweeddale East councillor Robin Tatler – riding for the Thondwe Girls project, supported by Innerleithen, Traquair and Walkerburn Parish Church of Scotland for many years – said the ride was “painful but with stunning views.”

A spokesperson from Innerleithen, Walkerburn and Traquair Rotary Club said: “A big shout out to our star man Robin who completed this gruelling race that includes a King of the Mountains stage with a 12 per cent gradient.

“Thank you for exceeding your target.”

On his JustGiving page Mr Tatler said: “Period poverty holds girls back in Thondwe, a community twinned with Innerleithen, Walkerburn and Traquair.

“The partnership established the Thondwe Girls Project to combat the lack of feminine hygiene products, provide a practical solution and empower a local sewing group to put their treadle machines to good use making the pads.

“A washable kit costing £10 will help a girl manage her period for three years.”