HUNDREDS of cyclists are preparing to ‘Ride for Rowcroft’, a 24km cycle challenge to raise funds for local families living with life-limiting illnesses. The ride starts and finishes at Newton Abbot Racecourse.

A limited number of places are still available for the challenge on October 8 if people register before this Sunday. (Oct 1)

Almost 400 people from across South Devon have so far registered to ride.

Daniel Robson, Rowcroft’s events manager, said: ‘Ride for Rowcroft is a brilliant event for cyclists looking to take on their first cycle challenge, achieve a personal best, or simply spend the morning cycling around the beautiful Devon countryside with family or friends.

‘The route snakes up from Newton Abbot Racecourse through Chudleigh Knighton to Bovey Tracey and back to the Racecourse via the Stover Trail. It is ideal for beginners and intermediates alike, but we do advise that all participating cyclists are confident riding on roads with traffic.’

Daniel said the hospice is hugely grateful to all those who have already signed up to take part in the event, and those who are volunteering their services to help with the running of the day.

He added: ‘Every pound raised by those taking part in Ride for Rowcroft will help local people facing the hardest days imaginable to spend precious time with their family and friends.

‘We are so grateful to all those who are raising, or giving friends and family, sponsorship for completing Ride for Rowcroft. Every pound really does make a huge difference.

‘We’re also extremely grateful to all those who are willingly donating their time to help at the event…on what we expect will be a chilly October morning.’

Cyclists will be able to sign up to take part on the day of the event, for the slightly increased price of £25 per adult and £18 per child. Entry is open to all those aged over 12.

Daniel said: ‘To register on the day we ask that participants arrive at Newton Abbot Racecourse by 7.30am. All participants must also wear helmets, be confident riding on potentially busy roads and have lights fitted to the front and rear of their bikes.’

For more information and to register online for Ride for Rowcroft visit www.rideforrowcroft.org.uk. Online registration costs £20 per adult and £12 per child, from age 12 to 15.