FRIENDS of a Dunfermline man who died in a tragic cycling accident are raising £2,000 in his memory.

Dad-of-two Jason Brand died after suffering serious injuries when he came off his bike during the Tour O' The Borders event on Sunday, September 1.

His friends have started fundraising for his family and are set to take part in a 120-mile cycle later this month from Dunfermline to Pitlochry, a route the 49-year-old had planned they complete together.

More than £1,300 of the £2,000 target has been contributed already.

Paul Hood, who set up the online Justgiving donation page, stated on the page: "We are a small group of cyclists who were fortunate to have Jason as a companion on many events across Scotland over the years.

"In his memory, we are taking on a challenging 120-mile route from Dunfermline to Pitlochry on Sunday, September 29.

"This is a route Jason had suggested that we all do together just a few days ago. It is with deep sadness and regret that he will be unable to accompany us on the day.

"He will of course be with us in spirit.

"Give whatever you can to help commemorate this great man."

Tributes were paid to Mr Brand, who served as secretary for Duloch Juniors Football Club, in the wake of his death with the police releasing a statement on behalf of his family, which read: "We are absolutely devastated at the loss of our beloved Jason; husband, son, brother, uncle and father-of-two.

“He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. We would like to ask for privacy to grieve at this difficult time.”

Mr Brand's funeral will take place at Dunfermline Crematorium this Saturday at 9.30am.

All family and friends are respectfully invited, family flowers only.

To donate money, search Justgiving.com under Jason Brand or Paul Hood.