THE LIPHOOK Crankers are cranking up their preparations for the annual charity bike ride on Sunday, June 11.

Many entries have already signed up online and planning is well under way for the ride which will be similar in format to last year’s event.

The ride team has written to local businesses for support with sponsorship and a number of firms and schools have already pledged support.

Bike Ride chairman Alistair Halliday told The Herald: “This year Bohunt School will sponsor the road signs, which will help to promote the school’s new sixth form college.

“Barons BMW and the Spire Hospital, in Havant, will be the other principle sponsors – both donating more than £700 each, while a number of new sponsors are also expected.

“EHDC has provided a £1,000 grant to fund new equipment, which will be spent on new gazebos for the junior ride and there will be a finish arch and certificates for finishers.

“Once again Petersfield ATC are managing car parking at Bohunt Centre while the Liphook Guides will man the refreshment stops.”

Alistair added: “The Crankers have made some enhancements to the website to make it even easier to enter, especially for charities and emails have been sent out to more than 600 riders who took part last year.”

Website manager Sean Remnant added: “We were very pleased with the way the website worked last year.

“This year we have introduced a short video which demonstrates how easy it is to register online.”

After raising more than £1million over 25 years, the Liphook and District Businessmen’s Association (LiDBA) passed over the reigns in 2016.

The Crankers held a meeting with members of LiDBA and representatives from a number of charities to brief them on the website and plans for the 2017 ride, in order for LiDBA to continue in their charity liaison role.

LiDBA is still offering support and assistance to any participating charities who would like help in registration, or other aspects of the administration of their teams. They can be contacted by emailing [email protected]

The Crankers have more than 20 road marshals but are appealing for more. Email info@liphookbikeride. com if you wish to volunteer.

Visit www.liphookbikeride.com for full details and how to raise funds for a charity – or see the Facebook page and Twitter @liphookbikeride