CYCLISTS are being urged to sign up for the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride and raise money for vital cancer support.

The Daily Echo-backed event, now in its 29th year, attracts hundreds of riders of all abilities.

Started in 1989 by Peter Smith-Nicholls, the fundraiser includes a number of distances from 10 miles up to a gruelling 100-miler.

Luxury yacht builder Sunseeker International, the Westover Group car dealership and Primera Sports bike store are sponsoring the event.

Sunseeker has been urging its employees to sign-up for the charity ride, Westover Group have been promoting it in its show rooms and recent Motor Showcase event, while Primera is offering discounts to all customers who take part.

Mr Smith-Nicholls said: "We greatly appreciate the support of all our sponsors, without them we could not raise the fantastic sums of money we do for Macmillan."

Six circular courses of 10, 25, 38, 48, 60 and 100 miles are being offered on the ride this year.

All rides start and finish at Corfe Mullen Recreation Ground, Bradbury View Road, Corfe Mullen.

Sunseeker International marketing manager Bryan Jones said: "The Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride is fast approaching and we are encouraging as many people from the local community as possible to sign-up and take part.

"This will be the 12th consecutive year Sunseeker has sponsored the event and more Sunseeker staff are taking part than ever before.

"The bike ride is essential in helping to raise funds for people living with cancer in the community and we are proud to be supporting Macmillan."

Bill Temple, owner of Primera Sports, said: "We are proud to support the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride. It is a great event for getting cyclists out on their bikes supporting people living with cancer."

To take part visit macmillanbikeride.co.uk or call 01202 601 705 for an entry form.

The ride will take place on Sunday, July 2.