People across the county are invited to swap office chairs for cycle saddles by taking part in the KM Big Bike Ride.

The adrenaline-inducing charity event is now open for booking, and a local magazine editor is calling for businesses to use the ride to energise their weary workforce.

Hilary Steel, Kent Women in Business editor, said: “Do you have staff stuck behind their desks all the time? Do you want to get some life back into them? Then why not assemble a team for the KM Big Bike Ride! The challenge day provides a fantastic setting for team-building and motivating employees, as well as exposing them to some beautiful Kentish scenery and getting some fresh air into the lungs.”

She added: “The ride also enables social-responsible businesses to support their charitable sectors and cement their identity in the community simultaneously.”

The ride organised by the KM Charity Team will see hundreds of cyclists gear 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: “We are always keen to use our charitable affairs to support businesses across the region, and invite them to take part for their own fundraising initiatives. Following the success of last year’s ride which raised a massive £20,000 for good causes, we hope we are able to build and better this figure come April.”

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.