THE Kent Messenger Group is supporting a one-day bike ride to raise funds for the Royal British Legion's Poppy support services which help servicemen and veterans.

The Kent One Day Ride, on Sunday, May 13, is the first event of its kind and will offer three different distances to choose from.

They are a gentle 10-mile cycle, a more challenging 30-mile ride or a gruelling 80-mile route for more experienced cyclists.

The ride will start and finish at Sevenoaks Prep School, Godden Green, Sevenoaks.

Russell Thompson, director of fund-raising and marketing at the Royal British Legion, said: "We are delighted to have the Kent Messenger Group as media sponsor and we look forward to seeing as many as possible cycling on May 13."

Bob Bounds, senior editor of the Kent Messenger, said: "It is expected that the event will be very popular and there are limited places available, so sign up as soon as possible."

Funds raised will go to a wide range of services, including respite care and family welfare.

MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE RIDE

* Start times: 9.30am for 80 miles, 10.30am for 10 and 30 miles.

* Entry fees: £15 per person/£40 per family (consisting of two adults and two children)

* Individual sponsorship: Raise as much as you can; £50 per person would be appreciated.

* Age limit: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

* Download an application form from www.poppybike.org.uk, call the events team on 020 7302 7123 or e-mail dsolley@ britishlegion.org.uk