The Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge will take place on Sunday 5 September 2021, with online registration opening at 10am on Tuesday 29 June. There are 600 places available and demand is expected to be extremely high.

The event, which usually takes place in May and was cancelled last year due to the pandemic, has been moved to September to kick start Air Ambulance Week 2021.

This year’s 55-mile route will start from Washford Cross Park and Ride in Watchet, Somerset at 11am and finish in West Bay. A shorter 11-mile route starts at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2pm and also finishes in West Bay.

The challenge is not designed as a race and involves cycling through some of Dorset and Somerset’s most beautiful countryside. The two different routes and distances are suitable for people of all ages and ability.

The route features a mix of terrains including quiet back roads, some very demanding climbs and equally hairy descents. Pit-stops along the route will provide a well-earned rest and refreshments for those that want it.

Participants can enter as an individual or as a team and the charity is hoping that anyone who is fortunate enough to gain a place will raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Chief Executive Officer, Bill Sivewright, said:

“It was terribly sad to have to cancel our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge in 2020 and then postpone again earlier this year. However, given the year we have just had, it now makes us extremely happy to be able to confirm the new date of Sunday 5 September.

“Over the past nine years, our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge has gathered amazing support, generating over £563,000 for the charity. Last year, we were due to celebrate our 20th anniversary and our 10th annual Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge. Obviously, things changed very quickly – events were cancelled and fundraising opportunities were extremely limited.

“Our team are now ready for the challenge of making this year’s event the best yet! If you are lucky enough to get a place, we can’t wait to be by your side, just like so many of our supporters have been over the years!”

Online registration will open at 10am on Tuesday 29 June 2021 via the charity’s website: www.dsairambulance.org.uk where more information can also be found. The entrance fee for this event is £32 for adults and £12 for under 16s.