CYCLING enthusiasts are being invited to get pumped up for a charity ride through the beautiful Worcestershire countryside in autumn.

And they don’t have to be long distance cyclists to take part – there are routes to suite everyone from those who enjoy a serious challenge to others wanting a gentle meander around the lanes.

The Bredon Hill Bikeaway is being staged on Sunday October 18 and starts from national horticulture centre Pershore College. There will be leisurely eight-mile bronze route; a 19-mile fun silver route for the whole family and a challenging and exciting 49-mile route gold route for those who like a more vigorous cycling experience.

Registration is in the refectory, which will also serve refreshments from 8.30am, and starts at 9am on the day – continuing until 11am. The gold route officially starts at 9.30am and the other two routes officially start at 9.45am.

The event is in aid of the Pershore Division of the St John Ambulance and the Vale of Evesham Community First Responder and will be officially opened by ceramics expert and national treasure Henry Sandon MEB who is also the president of the Pershore Division of St John Ambulance.

Tony Haines, spokesperson for both organisations said: “We are looking forward to another successful Bikeaway and greatly appreciate the efforts and donations put into this event - especially Pershore College which is once again hosting the event. We hope everyone joins in and has a fantastic day.”

Tickets cost £8 for adults and £5 for children while family tickets are also available for £20 (two adults and two children). All the money raised goes towards administering first aid and the provision of training programmes. Both organisations are funded only by duty fees and fundraising - each member is a volunteer taking time out of their own life in order to help save the lives of others.

Application forms are available by calling Henry Prudden on 01386 565564 and should be completed and returned as soon as possible. Further details including sponsorship forms will then be sent out.

Water will be provided along the routes and a support vehicle with first aid cover will be on hand at all times.