IT’S not too late to sign up to pedal around some of Dorset’s beautiful villages and raise money for a very good cause.

England cricketing legend David Gower is encouraging cyclists to get on their bikes and support the 23rd Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride on July 3.

Hundreds of people have already signed up for the event as the charity celebrates its centenary year.

“Why not ride 100 miles, raise £100 and help Macmillan raise £100,000,” said organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls.

They have come close before but never quite reached that figure, averaging around 800 cyclists and raising £83,938 last year in the Daily Echo supported event.

And for those who want to do their bit with a shorter ride, there is something for everyone with 10, 20, 38, 48 or 60 mile circuits, all starting from Corfe Mullen Recreation Ground.

Ride sponsors are giving their backing to encourage people to go the extra mile with fund raising. Primera bike shop will present the top fundraiser with a £100 voucher for the shop.

Castle Cameras will present the runner up with a camera and everyone who raises over £100 will be entered into a draw for a £100 voucher to spend on camera equipment.

The Daily Echo is an event media partner and editor Neal Butterworth said: “This is a fantastic event and I hope as many people take part as possible to meet the £100,000 target.”

Sunseeker International’s operations director, Wayne Moore, who is helping support the £100,000 challenge said: “The Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride raises money for a very worthy cause and it would be fantastic to reach our goal in the 100th anniversary year.

“The ride is superbly organised and at Sunseeker we have a number of entrants who are completing the 100 mile challenge, and many more who are bringing their friends and family to enjoy a range of different routes through some superb countryside. Sign up, it is a great way to spend a sunny Sunday in July.”

You can enter online at macmillanbikeride.co.uk or Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride, PO Box 1432 Broadstone BH18 9YE, telephone 01202 601705 for entry forms.