The West Kent Big Bike Ride returns this year to Cyclopark, Gravesend, to give cyclists a chance to raise money for their chosen charities.

Riders can join the challenge, which is organised by the KM Charity Team and gives the choice of a 50km or 100km route, by signing up for the cycle online.

The routes take riders on a picturesque journey through nearby Kent towns and villages, and you can take on the challenge at any pace you like.

Those who want to take things at a leisurely speed, or perhaps those cycling with children, can ride for fun. Meanwhile, cyclists taking the challenge more seriously can choose to raise money for charity through sponsorship.

Charities will receive 70% of the funds raised by their supporters, and the remainder will go to the KM Charity Team to cover costs for the event and to fund its child literacy, road safety and environmental work within Kent and Medway schools.

The East Kent Big Bike Ride, which took place in Deal earlier this year, saw nearly 300 participants raise almost £9,000 for causes across the county.

Speaking of the spring bike ride, the charity team said: “The people who came together in East Kent to participate in the KM Charity Team East Kent Bike Ride didn’t just see it as an opportunity to go on a bike ride, it was something so much more special than that.”

While families can take part together, unfortunately the West Kent Big Bike Ride is not open to anyone under the age of 12. Riders aged to 12-17 will need parental consent to take part, and must be accompanied on the route by a responsible adult.

The West Kent Big Bike Ride takes place on Sunday, September 11 at Cyclopark in Gravesend. You can find out more details, including how to sign up for the ride, here.