SOME of the biggest names in sport are encouraging everyone to get on their bikes later this summer - and cycle in support of Doddie Weir.

The 47-year-old former Scottish and British Lions rugby star was diagnosed with motor neurone disease more than a year ago.

And for the past year or so the dad-of-three from Stow has been actively fundraising - through his own My Name’5 Doddie Foundation - to help with research into the condition.

This week in Melrose a major fundraising event to support Doddie's foundation was launched.

Fellow British Lion Peter Winterbottom revealed details of the Doddie’5 Ride, which will start and finish at The Greenyards.

The former England flanker told the Border Telegraph: “What we have tried to create here is a fun event for cyclists of all abilities and age groups, from club cyclists and weekend cyclists to complete beginners.

“The Doddie’5 Classic navigates through the beautiful Borders countryside of rolling hills and scenic lanes whilst Doddie’5 Challenge runs along the river from Melrose towards Selkirk via Tweedbank, doubling back making it a pleasant 11 miles - ideal for younger and less experienced cyclists.

“The rugby fraternity has been hugely supportive of Doddie, but participants in other sports – such as cycling - have come forward and shown a willingness to assist the Foundation's fundraising ambitions.”

The Doddie’5 Ride, which takes place on Sunday, August 12, has two distances on offer - the Doddie’5 Classic over 60 miles and the Doddie’5 Challenge at just 11 miles.

And Doddie remains optimistic he will be able to take part.

He said: "I have been asked to flag off the riders at the ceremonial start – although I’m still on the lookout for a big-boy tandem and a Lycra race suit that would fit me.

"This is a tremendous idea that will involve everyone from the serious cyclists down to families looking for something different as a day out and I have to thank Peter for pulling everything together.”

Joining Doddie and Peter at this week's launch was multiple Commonwealth, British, European and World Masters paralympic cycling champion Louise Haston.

And the forthcoming event is also being supported by former Olympic, World, Commonwealth and European triple jump champion Jonathan Edwards.

He told us: "As a keen cyclist I am delighted to support the Doddie’5 Ride.

“It is a great opportunity for cyclists of all abilities and ages to give their support, and raise much needed funds, for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and the fight against motor neurone disease.

"The gathering promises to be a great day of cycling and sporting camaraderie and a day to remember.”

To take part in the fundraising cycle challenges go to www.myname5doddie.co.uk/ride-for-doddie

This is the latest step for the former Scotland and Lions great.

Now 47, Doddie’s foundation is helping to find a cure for Motor Neurons Disease in which he was diagnosed with last year.

My Name’5 Doddie Foundation has been receiving lots of support since its launch last year, only a fortnight ago England Rugby legends Johnny Wilkinson, Lawrence Dallaglio and Rob Andrew carried out a ball in the Aviva Premiership Final in support of the former Scotland Second Row’s foundation, encouraging people to donate via text.