Get cycling in the spirit of Tour de France with Martlets Hospice

With cyclists, non cyclists and general sports enthusiasts following the various stages of the Tour de France, now is a good time to get on your own bike and set a cycling challenge for yourself this summer.

Whilst we can take some inspiration from Britain’s Mark Cavendish, the majority of us are probably not at the stage where we would want to tackle the Massif Central or the Pyrenees.

Charity bike rides are a great way to take part in a fun, organised ride with like-minded people, whilst also raising money for a valuable cause. London to Brighton has become a classic, with some great scenery en route and the incentive of arriving at the seafront.

The annual Friday Night Ride to the Coast, organised by Martlets Hospice, takes place on Friday 2nd September 2011.

The organisers have set a maximum of 1,000 entrants to ensure that the event is safe, enjoyable for everyone and not overcrowded. This also means that the Martlets Friday Night Ride to the Coast is the perfect event to take part in if you feel inspired by the competitiveness of the Tour de France and want to aim for a new personal best on the 58 mile route.

The Ride leaves London Victoria at midnight, arriving in Brighton in time for breakfast at the seafront - that moment when the sun rises over the hills certainly gets the adrenaline flowing and makes the effort worthwhile! All you need to take part is a roadworthy bike with working brakes and good-quality lights, wearing a helmet is also strongly recommended.

Entry is £15 and all cyclists are asked to raise money for the Martlets Hospice in Hove. The entry fee includes a t-shirt, refreshments at the halfway stage and a medal.

To enter the event, visit www.themartlets.org.uk or call the Fundraising Team for an entry form on 01273 747455