CYCLING enthusiasts are being encouraged to make the most of National Bike to Work Week in preparation for taking on the Ride for Radiotherapy challenge in September.

Bike to Work Week, which runs this week until Sunday, June 18, is a nationwide initiative aimed at getting people more active, and the Brighter Futures team is making the most of it.

Chloe Thomas, community and events fundraiser for Brighter Futures, said: “Bike to Work Week is a great chance to start training for the Brighter Futures Ride for Radiotherapy, which takes place on Saturday, September 16.

“All you have to do is get a bike and cycle to work and start clocking up the miles in preparation for the ride.

“It’s a really good opportunity for people to buy a bike, or get it out the garage and dust it off, and hit the road.

“You can get some miles in and it’s of course great for your health.”

The Ride for Radiotherapy involves either a 20-mile, 45-mile or 70-mile route around the scenic county of Wiltshire to help Swindon win the fight against cancer.

Chloe said: “We live in such a lovely place. There is beautiful scenery around Swindon and Wiltshire and it’s a good excuse to get the family out for a picnic or a day out in the fresh air.”

The route will be confirmed nearer the time but as per previous years it will be on roads and pavements.

It costs £22.50 to take part in the 20-mile route and £26 for the 45 and 70-mile routes.

The Brighter Futures team is still on the hunt for a rickshaw after team member Lisa Utting vowed to take part with the 80-year-old Queen of Brighter Futures, Jill Huby, and cycle 20 miles on the rickshaw with Jill in tow.

If anybody would like to donate a rickshaw, or knows where one may be obtained, the team would be very grateful.

To sign up for the event, log on to www.rideforradiotherapy.co.uk.

So far £1,539,135 has been raised for Brighter Futures. The team is very grateful for every single donation and wish to thank everyone for their support.

To donate you can send cut out and send in the attached form or log on to: www.brighterfuturesgwh.nhs.uk.