MORE than a thousand cyclists of all ages and abilities are expected to saddle up for the 11th Farnham Charity Bike Ride on Sunday (July 7).

From humble beginnings – the first ride offered just one 25 mile route with fewer than 200 people taking part – the Farnham Charity Bike Ride now offers four routes with more than a thousand riders taking part each year.

Starting at 8am, cyclists can choose from routes of 16, 25, 50 or 75 miles, all of which are supported by volunteer marshals and a total of five refreshment stops, with routes taking in the best of Surrey and Hampshire’s beautiful countryside on winding back roads.

The event has raised more than £100,000 in ten years for good causes in the local area.

Originally set up by St Andrew’s Infant School parents to fund building works at the school, the event is now organised jointly with the Farnham Round Table and the proceeds split evenly between St Andrew’s and the Round Table.

The start and finish is on Castle Street, which will be closed to traffic for most of the day, and the event forms part of the Farnham Festival of Cycling, which includes the Farnham Town Centre Races (www.farnhamfestivalofcycling.org) on Sunday evening.

Herald chief reporter Daniel Gee will be tackling the 25 mile route with his five year old daughter in tow, generously sponsored by Coffee Diem in Lion & Lamb Yard in aid of the Herald's Phyllis at 40 appeal. Please donate online at www.justgiving.com/heraldhospiceappeal.

Cyclists can sign up on the day or online by visiting the website at farnhambikeride.org.uk.