Cardiac patients set off from Scotland’s heart transplant centre for coast-to-coast cycle
A group of cyclists known as the Electric Cranks have begun a coast-to-coast cycle ride from NHS Golden Jubilee in Clydebank to Dunbar in East Lothian.
The Electric Cranks, established in 2019, are made up of individuals who have either received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) or undergone heart transplant surgery. The group brings together people with lived experience of serious heart conditions, with a shared interest in cycling, rehabilitation and peer support.
NHS Golden Jubilee is Scotland’s national centre for advanced heart failure treatment, including LVADs and heart transplantation. The service supports patients from across the country, providing specialist care, surgery and rehabilitation to help people recover and return to active lives.
Using pedal-assist electric bikes, the group will take on a multi-day challenge covering more than 100 miles. The 2026 route began at NHS Golden Jubilee today (Tuesday 2 June).
Ged Higgins, Founding Member of the Electric Cranks Cycling Club, said: “We’ve chosen to start our coast-to-coast ride at NHS Golden Jubilee because of what it represents for people living with severe heart failure.
“It is Scotland’s national centre for left ventricular assist devices and heart transplants, and beginning here helps us highlight the care, treatment and rehabilitation that support people to return to active lives.”
The Golden Jubilee University National Hospital sits on the banks of the River Clyde, where the route will follow the Forth and Clyde Canal before joining the John Muir Way, passing landmarks including the Falkirk Wheel, the Kelpies, Edinburgh Old Town and Musselburgh.
The ride aims to raise awareness of severe heart failure and highlight the role of treatment and rehabilitation in supporting people to live active, healthy lives. It also provides an opportunity for participants to connect with others who have shared similar experiences.
Lynne Ayton, Executive Director of Operations at NHS Golden Jubilee, said: “We are pleased to support the Electric Cranks as they begin their journey from NHS Golden Jubilee. Their ride highlights what can be achieved following advanced heart failure treatment and helps raise awareness of the support available to people living with these conditions.”
The group will mark World Cycling Day in Edinburgh on 3 June 2026 as part of the journey.
Through this challenge, the Electric Cranks aim to demonstrate how treatment, combined with determination and support, can help people rebuild their lives after serious illness.
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