A special bike ride will help mark the 30th anniversary of the devastating bombing of the Royal Marines School of Music in Deal.

The founder of the Royal Marine Heritage Trail, Bill Butler, will be leading the ride from 2pm until 4pm on Sunday.

It will explore the heritage of the corps, from Sandown Castle Community Garden to Kingsdown via The Downs, with Mr Butler sharing his knowledge of their time in Deal.

The event is part of Deal Town Council's month-long series of cycling events and activities to encourage more people to consider using bicycles as an alternative mode of transport.

Cycle Friendly Deal co-ordinator Adrian Oliver said: "This is a family friendly ride at a gentle pace, mainly on quiet roads, the seafront and National Cycle Network Route 1 cycle path.

"Riders with just about any sort of roadworthy bike, including folders and electric bikes, are welcome.

"As well as being at a gentle pace, the ride is generally flat with lots of stops."

Cycle September is a national month long celebration of cycling and cyclists.

Last weekend, more than a dozen unloved bikes were given a new home thanks to the scheme.

Town councillors, pictured, have applauded the generosity of Deal residents who emptied their sheds and garages of unwanted bikes.

They have been refurbished, cleaned up and resold at affordable prices to people keen to get on their bike and take part in Cycle September.

Other events taking place this week include the Pier to Pit ride from 1pm until 5pm today (Thursday).

The 21-mile route explores the town's mining heritage incorporating the colliery sites at Betteshanger and Tilmanstone, the mining communities at Elvington, Eythorne and Mill Hill and the East Kent Light Railway. The ride will be at a moderate pace with a café stop at Eythorne Station.

For less confident riders there will be Lunchtime Little Loop, also tomorrow from 1pm until 2pm. Riders should meet at Hut 55, opposite the Paddling Pool on the seafront at Walmer.

On Saturday, Wheelers Welcome offers two 35-mile rides. One will be a fast, hilly ride with the other a steady flatter one, both running from 9am until 1.30pm.

The Tuesday Tour is a senior gentleman cycling group ride with all bikes, including electric, welcome. Meet at Deal Pier at 9am.

Mr Oliver said: “Cycle September would not be possible without the support of local cycling groups and volunteers.

"Deal Town Council are very grateful for their help and expertise encouraging more people to ride.”

Booking is required for some rides due to limited space. Go to deal.gov.uk

READ MORE: All the events going on in Kent and all your breaking news across the county