Charities in Kent and Medway will get a cash windfall thanks to Vattenfall backing the KM Big Bike Ride for the fourth year in a row.

The Thanet based wind farm operator which provides the county with renewable energy serves as a key partner of the ride and will saddle up alongside participants for the fundraising event this April.

Melanie Rogers of Vattenfall, said: “If you are looking for a psychical challenge, then the bike ride is the perfect event for you. It provides a thrilling day out amongst beautiful Kentish scenery, and enables those prone to competition to moderate their performance thanks to electronic chips which record your time.”

She added: “Many of our staff are keen cyclists and consider the ride as a major entry in their even calendar. However, many others like me simply like taking part for fun and supporting good causes.”

The business is working with the KM Charity Team on the event, which will see hundreds of cyclists saddle up on Sunday, April 24.

Booking is now open for the event and riders can choose between a 100K coastal route and a 50K version through the countryside, both starting from and finishing at Betteshanger Country Park near Deal.

All riders will receive a souvenir medal and goody bag upon completion, as well as a sportive photograph taken during the event.

Lisa Craig, events manager at the KM Charity Team, said: “Last year’s Big Bike Ride saw more than 450 riders take part, raising a huge £20,000 for charity. We are keen to build on this success and deliver yet another high-octane challenge event for our participants.”

Book for the event at www.kmbigbikeride.co.uk and use the code KMPRBB16 for a £5 discount.

Riders aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.