WILTSHIRE Air Ambulance charity ambassador Lauren Booth is encouraging people to get on their bicycles and take part in the Wiltshire Big Wheel/100 event.

The popular cycling challenge raises vital funds for the air ambulance and has a choice of routes to suit cyclists of all abilities.

This year’s event is taking place on Sunday, September 17, and bookings are now being taken.

Lauren, a champion para-cyclist from Chippenham, completed the 45-mile route in the Wiltshire Big Wheel last year and is going to do so again in this year’s event.

Lauren, who hopes to take part in the 2020 Paralympics, said: “I really enjoyed taking part in the Wiltshire Big Wheel last year and it was interesting to explore different places in the county.

"I’m looking forward to doing it again this year and to the challenge of doing the 45 mile ride. The event is a great way to raise funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s lifesaving service while at the same time enjoying the countryside and keeping fit.”

Organised by Bristol-based Bike Events the event starts and finishes at The Green in Devizes.

The routes are a 12-mile family challenge through the Vale of Pewsey, 45 miles which goes through Pewsey and Marlborough or 100 miles which extends to the Wylye Valley and Salisbury.

Kenresa Stratford, fundraising and events co-ordinator at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “This will be the third year that we have been involved with the Wiltshire Big Wheel and 100 event and we are thrilled to once again be the sole charity partner.

"This event has gone from strength to strength and last year more than 400 people took part and raised over £32,000.

“We are looking forward to making this year bigger and better as it’s a great event that offers a variety of routes that you can explore.

"It’s brilliant to once again have the support of our charity ambassador Lauren Booth.

"We’d love to encourage you to challenge yourselves, your families or your colleagues to hop on your bicycles and see what our stunning county has to offer, whilst raising funds to keep our helicopter flying and saving lives.”

To book a place or for more information call the charity team on 01380 739453, email kenresa@wiltshireairambulance.co.uk or go to our website www.wiltshireairambulance.co.uk/events/wiltshire-100-big-wheel