HUNDREDS of cyclists are expected to take part in this year's fifth Rotary Dorset Bike Ride.

This event, held to raise funds for Cancer Research UK, is planned to take place in September - with riders starting and finishing at Longthorns Campsite, opposite Monkey World near Wool.

An event spokesman said: "The ride caters for all levels from the family to the hardened cyclists with eight routes from just 10 miles up to the challenging Dorset 108-mile Etape."

More than £100,000 has been raised for Cancer Research and other charities through the annual event to date.

This year, in a bid to encourage more families to take part, children will be able to enter free if riding in the 10, 22, or 34-mile routes. Youngsters will get a free ticket to Monkey World.

The spokesman said: "The event is very well organised with plenty of marshals, excellent signage with refreshment stops along the way. We have full back up support including first aid, bike repair or pickup in case of problems."

There will also be plenty of parking, onsite catering plus free massages for riders afterwards at Longthorns Campsite.

Although raising sponsorship is not compulsory, organisers hope riders will raise funds for cancer research and there are rewards and prizes for those that do.

Prizes include a new bike and bike vouchers donated by Cyclexperience of Wareham; free cycle jerseys and t-shirts, plus six months' membership to the Springfield Leisure Club.

The spokesman added: "We would like to thank the sponsors Bloor Homes, Cyclexperience, Actavo, Springfield Country Hotel, Dorset Flapjacks, Corbens Estate Agent, Dorset Golf and Country Club and local supermarkets."

The Rotary Bike Ride takes place on September 18.