A Shropshire charity is calling on cycling enthusiasts to get involved and join them for a 50km or 100km bike ride through the countryside 25th September 2016.

Cyclists will set off from Shawbury Village Hall and cycle either 50km or 100km through the beautiful Shropshire countryside.

The 100km route will take cyclists through both the south and the north of the Shropshire countryside, where they will enjoy wonderful views. This is a unique ride and a great opportunity to raise vital funds for those living with a life limiting illness in Shropshire and Mid Wales.

Paul Cronin, Chief Executive of Severn Hospice and regular long distance cyclist, said: “The Severn Hospice Great Big Bike Ride has turned into an annual fixture for a lot of local cyclists. The route combines the best of Shropshire’s countryside with the companionship of hundreds of fellow cyclists on the road.

“The different distances available mean that you don’t have to be Bradley Wiggins to participate, in fact the whole event is about enjoyment not speed or endurance.”

Pete Bird, Director of Bicycles by Design, Coalport and coach for the Ironbridge Clarion Cycling Club said: “When I created The Severn Hospice Great Big Bike Ride routes I hoped that riders would both enjoy and be challenged, whilst covering the whole of Shropshire’s landscape in one day. I am pleased to say that my hope has worked out, as riders do come back each year to ride and bring friends along to give it a go.

“Whether you are a regular rider in this event, or you are joining in for the first time, please get involved and book your place on what is truly a Shropshire event for all.”

Refreshments and hot food will also be available on the day courtesy of Podium Catering, whose delicious hot chilli is a firm favourite amongst previous years’ cyclists.

The hospice is asking that everyone who registers raises a minimum of £15.00 in sponsorship. It is £12.50 to take part in the 50km route and £25.00 to take part in the 100km route.

Sign in on the day and registration is between 9.00am and 9.30am for the 100km route and for the 50km route it is between 10.00am and 10.30am. Maps will also be available from the beginning of August. Children may take part in the 50km route but must be over 12 years of age and accompanied by an adult.

For more information, or to register online for this year’s Great Big Bike Ride, please visit www.severnhospice.org.uk. Alternatively please call the fundraising team on 01952 221 351 or email events@severnhospice.org.uk.