WYRE Forest folk are being urged to take to the saddle and enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside on Sunday.

The Bewdley cycle event has been organised as part of National Bike Week, which aims to encourage more people to take up the environmentary-friendly form of transport.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities are invited to take the seven-mile return route, which will leave Bewdley at 10.30am and follow National Cycle Route 45. It will continue into the Wyre Forest, where it will link up with a family friendly trail to the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre.

Although there are some uphill sections, the pace will be leisurely and there will be the opportunity to take a break at the attraction.

Riders will then make their way back to Bewdley's riverside for around 12.15pm, in time for the monthly farmers' market.

The event is suitable for children, although under-16s must be accompanied by an adult, and registration will start at 10am at the Riverside Caf, Severnside North.

It is free to take part in the ride, although donations to the campaign's chosen charity, Leukaemia Research, will be accepted.

For further details, log on to www.bewdley.org.uk or contact 01299 405516. Further information about National Bike Week is available from www.bikeweek.org.uk