Riders will be taking to two wheels for a free, fun family cycle through the Otter Valley’s stunning countryside next weekend.

Participants can choose to tackle the 25-mile route, or cover an 11-mile stretch, with both rides starting at 10am on Sunday, April 24, from Ottery St Mary Cricket Club in Strawberry Lane.

The event is organised by the Rotary Club of the Otter Valley and members are hoping to make it an annual celebration of cycling for all ages while also raising money for a number of worthy causes.

The club’s Peter Taylor says this event is different in that it gives riders the opportunity to do their own fundraising for a charity of their choice.

Half of the money will then go to local community projects through the Rotary gift arrangement.

Cyclists taking part in the 11-mile course will pass by the villages of Gittisham, Fenny Bridges, Alfington and Fairmile before circling back to the start point.

The longer, 25-mile route takes riders out via Awliscombe, Talaton and Westwood, returning once again to Ottery St Mary Cricket Club.

The event is free for all participants, although those taking part are encouraged to obtain sponsorship in order to help support the charitable ethos of the ride.

Entry forms are available in shops around Ottery or email jamesgcobley@tiscali.co.uk.

A bar and barbecue will be serving refreshments from 10am.

The charity cycle ride follows the inaugural Otter Valley Festival organised by the rotary club last year which raised £3,500 for local causes.

Beneficiaries included Ottery Football Club and Hospiscare.

For more information, visit: www.rideottervalley.co.uk/.