CYCLISTS are being invited to take part in the biggest annual bike ride in the Shepway area and take in the sites of the Romney Marsh at the same time.

Riders of all ages and abilities can take part in the Cyclethon on Sunday, June 16, the last day of National Bike Week.

The event, now in its fourth year, has once again been organised by the Romney Marsh Countryside Project and Shepway District Council.

Several hundred cyclists are expected to follow the 16-mile route across the Marsh. It will be held between 10am and 2pm, starting at St Martin's Field in New Romney at 10am, the central car park, Dymchurch, at 11am and Lathe Barn Tea Rooms, Burmarsh, at 11.30pm. Those taking part are free to join in whenever they wish.

Free transport will be supplied in the form of a minibus for anyone whose legs get tired.

At the end of the event there will be a barbecue in New Romney at 1.30pm where there will be a free T-shirt for all those take part.

Children under 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Everyone attending is advised to wear cycle helmets.

Andy Morris from the RMCP said: "Once again this promises to be a fun event for all the family. It is a great opportunity to experience the unique Marsh landscape and get some exercise in to the bargain."