A Highlander is hoping to set a new British record in the annual Race Around Ireland.

Ultracyclist Will MacLennan is the only Scottish person competing in the gruelling event, which kick-starts on Sunday.

The 1335-mile route, which includes 22,000m of climbing, takes several days to complete.

Competing under the name Caberfeidh Ultra, Mr MacLennan hopes to beat the current British record by smashing the loop in less than 113 hours.

In order to do this, he is expecting to get just three hours of sleep over four days.

Mr MacLennan, from Evanton in Easter Ross, will have three bikes on standby and will be supported by his team of seven volunteers, which includes his wife Alison, who is currently fighting lung cancer.

Mr MacLennan, who has been training for the event since November 2017, hopes to raise funds for Cash for Kids and Macmillan Cancer Support.

He said: "As a well-trained amateur ultracyclist, I've put the miles in to prepare for Race Around Ireland.

"Although I am doing the individual race, this has been a massive team effort.

"My team of seven volunteers have given up their time to make sure we are as prepared as possible; from planning the route to making sure I stay focused, fit, fed and safe.

"I'm excited to get out on the bike and take on this challenge, with the aim of breaking the current British record.

"As the only Scottish person to compete in the Race Around Ireland, I hope to do everyone proud, including my incredible support team, while raising money for brilliant charities."