ORGANISERS of this year’s Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge say it will be the best one yet.

The epic charity event, which is now in its fifth year, will see hundreds of cyclists tackle a gruelling 54 mile cycle ride on Sunday, May 17.

The route starts at Watchet Harbour in the North and ends at West Bay in the South, following a scenic route through the beautiful Somerset and Dorset countryside.

A shorter 11 mile route will start at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2.00pm and also finishes as West Bay.

In total 600 cyclists are set to take part in the event, which last year raised more than £60,000 for the life-saving charity.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive officer, said, “We are delighted that this event is so well supported and it seems to get better year on year.

“The atmosphere amongst the cyclists and those who support them at the start, en-route and at the finishing point is incredible.

“This is our fifth year in the saddle and we are hoping it will be the best C2C Cycle Challenge yet.

“Of those taking part this year, there are former patients, who have experienced the work of the air ambulance first-hand.

“Others are cycling in memory of loved ones, as part of a team, or simply want to challenge themselves and support our cause.”

Supporters will be able to encourage the cyclists on-route or at one of the four allocated pit-stops located at Bishops Lydeard Football Club, Creech St Michael, Ilminster Ambulance Station and the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton.

All places have been allocated for this year’s event.

Finish line celebrations will take place at East Beach Car Park in West Bay where cyclists are expected to start arriving from around 2.00pm.

As well as individual sponsorship of the cyclists, the charity has set up two other ways in which donations can be made in support of the event.

These can be made online by visiting dsairambulance.org.uk or by texting COAS05 £5 to 70070.