Cyclists needed as charity bike race returns to Wareham

This year, the popular cycling event will be taking place on Sunday, October 10, starting and finishing at Longthorns Campsite next to Monkey World in Wareham.

The cycle challenge has raised money for a number of charities over the years, most notably Cancer Research UK to help those who have been diagnosed with cancer or are undergoing treatment.

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Ride Organiser Richard Burnett said: “I have been involved in the Rotary Dorset Bike Ride for a number of years, and as a result, have been able to visit their laboratory and research facility at Southampton Hospital and seen first-hand the vital work that they undertake to fight cancer.

“Some of my close family members have either beaten various cancers or sadly passed away from them.

“So I was devastated to learn during the lockdown before Christmas that I had prostate cancer and this naturally made me more determined than ever to support the research carried out by Cancer Research UK by continuing to organise the Rotary Dorset Bike Ride in aid of them.

“My message to anyone living with cancer is that the fight must go on and Life is for Living.”

To date, The Rotary Dorset Bike Ride has raised over £300,000 for Cancer Research UK.

This year, the bike race will include reduce the number of routes to five – these being 22, 35, 55, 70 and 108 miles in length.

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Organisers are also looking for volunteers and marshals to help out with the coordination of the event.

Riders are advised to sign up for the event before the end of September to secure their place.

To find out more, visit www.dorset-bike-ride.co.uk.