Cyclists taking part in the KM Big Bike Ride at the end of the month are being urged to make last-minute preparations to ensure a successful day.

And with less than three weeks to go until the challenge takes place on Sunday, April 28, time is running out to register for the event.

To make sure everything goes smoothly on the day, riders will be provided with technical support by Whitstable bike shop Herberts Cycles.

Herberts owner Keith Spencer has issued a brief list of must-dos for participants to tick off in advance of the ride.

Mr Spencer stressed that it was important that everybody taking part had fun, and advised people to consider doing a preparation ride or two to make sure their bikes and legs were in working order.

He said: “That will make the day go really pleasantly so that you can enjoy the ride and have no mechanical problems.”

The ride offers a choice of 50K and 100K routes, with both departing from Betteshanger Park near Deal

Mr Spencer also urged riders to take some essential supplies on the day, saying: “Carry a couple of spares with you perhaps, inner tube, tyre leavers, pump, just so you can be a bit self-sufficient.

“And then also nutrition, making sure you’ve got the energy to complete the ride the way you want to. So don’t forget to take your water and food.”

Besides Herberts, the ride is supported by Benenden Hospital Trust, key partner Vattenfall, SE Medical and the Southern Co-operative, which will provide riders with en-route refreshments.

Riders can take part in the challenge just for fun, or to raise money for their favourite good causes. 70 per cent of sponsorship money will go to the participants’ chosen charities, with the rest helping to fund the KM Charity Team’s child road safety work in Kent.

And any individual raising £200 or more for charity will go into a draw to win a pair of Eurostar tickets.

Participants will benefit from electronic chip timing, mid-ride refreshments, and a sportive photograph taken during the event.

The ride costs £30 per person, but there is a £5 discount when using the booking code KMNews19.

Find out more about the ride and book your place at Kmbigbikeride.co.uk.

And watch a video in which Mr Spencer shares his tips for the ride here: