A RALLYING call has gone out for big-hearted cyclists prepared to use pedal power for a worthy cause.

The Daily Echo backed Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride on Sunday, July 7, will celebrate 25 years of fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Since its launch the charity cycle ride has raised £1 million, boosted by the £72,273 proceeds from last year’s event.

Ride organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls is now urging cyclist to sign up for a special 25-mile ride taking them through Charborough Park near Wimborne. The usual rides will also be on offer including the 10, 38, 48, 60 and 100-mile challenge.

Cyclists can sign up at Castlepoint shopping centre in Bournemouth on Saturday from 9 am until 3 pm.

As well as a free water bottle, entrants will be entered into a prize draw. They will be able to try on cycling jerseys and can get 15 per cent off Primera helmets.

Peter told the Daily Echo: “When we started out in 1989, from such small beginnings, it was a distant dream to raise £1 million. However, with the backing of Sunseeker International in the last seven years, we have now raised over that sum.”

Sunseeker International operations director Wayne Moore said: “Macmillan Cancer Support is an excellent charity and their teams do a wonderful job to help sufferers and their families in many ways.

“The ride provides an opportunity for anyone to take part in a great day in a beautiful part of the country, while raising money for a very worthwhile cause.”

To enter this year’s event visit macmillanbikeride.co.uk or phone 01202 601705 for entry forms.