While it lacks the severity of the Alpine climbs on other Marmotte series events, the sportive does still pack in 5,000ft of climbing on rolling, scenic roads in the East Ayrshire countryside.

Tom Caldwell, from organisers The Very Cool Events Company, said: “The Tour of Cambridgeshire was such a success that it paved the way for us to have this event incorporated within the prestigious Marmotte Gran Fondo Series.

“I am also delighted to be working with the Braveheart Cycling Fund, helping to raise their profile and raise funds for such an incredible cause supporting young riders in Scotland.

“I look forward to seeing a fantastic race together with the legions of leisure and charity riders enjoying the beautiful countryside in and around Kilmarnock.”

The chrono time trial takes place on a rolling 20km circuit, and boasts fully closed roads, a start ramp and electronic timing, and is strictly limited to 600 places.

The Gran Fondo, meanwhile, follows the traditional gran fondo format meaning – alongside fully closed roads – the event will feature a race at the front, with a substantial prize list, while the rear is a traditional sportive.

Part of a weekend-long festival, centred on Kilmarnock’s Kay Park, there will also be a 5km Colour Run on the Friday and a party in the park.

For more information, or to enter, visit www.marmotteecosse.com.