WIth less than a month to go until the 42nd Three Counties Cycle Ride, organisers are making final preparations to the next June event.
Posters are in place, marshals briefed, and drink stations organised for this charity cycling opportunity, which has donated more than a million pounds for worthwhile organisations since 1983.
Supporter of the Three Counties Cycle Ride Brian Bell, of Cycling UK, said: “There is so much joy in a cycling group.
“You get to see the great outdoors, exploring different places each time, that you did not know even existed.”
The event is suitable for family groups and cycling clubs alike, with a choice of 15, 34 or 52-mile rides that take cyclists through beautiful Berkshire countryside.
The routes start and finish at Garth Hill College in Bracknell, and are all well-signed, with friendly marshals and drink stations along the longer rides, which dip into Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
Around 250 riders have already registered to enjoy a cycle in the country, and to support their chosen charity, with every pound they raise through sponsorship going to their nominated good cause.
Organisers thank those already signed up, and would love many more people to dust off their wheels and join them.
People who aren’t cycling, but who would like to get involved can also choose to join the event as a marshal and receive a donation for their chosen charity.
And this year, for the first time, after the event cyclists can nip over to Bond Square, next to the Lexicon, to enjoy the second Bracknell Cycle Festival – entry is free.
There, people will be able to see BMX stunt displays, test their cycling skills around an obstacle course (for adults and children alike), and take short, guided cycle rides through some of Bracknell’s parks, led by KidicalMass.
There will also be cycling and community stalls in Bond Square and refreshments including hot dogs, tea, coffee, and beer.
Both events take place on Sunday, June 8.
The Three Counties Cycle Ride kicks off with the first riders beginning at 8am, and the last starting their routes by 9.30am.
Registration to cycle on the day can be made from 7.30am, and the event will run until 4pm, with the site vacated by 4.30pm.
Taking part costs £20, or £25 on the day of the event, with under 18s riding for just £1 no matter when they sign up.
The Bracknell Cycle Festival, organised by Avanti Cycling, in co-operation with Trek Bracknell and Bracknell Forest Council, will run from 11am to 4pm.
For information and to register for the cycle ride, visit: 3ccr.org
For information about the cycling festival, log onto: bracknellcyclefestival.co.uk
