PEOPLE are being urged to use pedal power to raise money for charity.

The Swindon Bike Ride is being held next month and is aimed at encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

But the 20km event around Lydiard Park will also be raising vital funds for Cancer Research UK.

The fundraiser, which is being held on Saturday, September 22 at 11am, will also cater for youngsters, with a 5km under-11 bike ride also taking place on the day.

The event is being organised by the Swindon Bike Ride Committee, which includes representatives of Active Swindon, a Lottery-funded project, which aims to increase the physical activity participation rates of Swindon residents.

Active Swindon co-ordinator and event committee member Gladys Barr said: "The Swindon Bike Ride is a fantastic way for people to get physically active and raise money for Cancer Research UK.

"The ride is suitable for people of all ages and abilities so why not get your family, friends or colleagues together and join in for a fun day out?"

The 20km circuit will take riders through villages Lydiard Millicent and Purton, Ravensroost and Flaxlands Wood, and back to Lydiard Park.

Gladys said: "Active Swindon would like to remind residents that a physically active lifestyle can help with avoiding serious health risks such as heart disease, strokes, cancers, obesity and diabetes.

"Why not start being more active today by joining your local Swindon Bike Ride?"

Last year 160 riders took part in the event, with some completing the course in just 40 minutes.

Registration for the 20km ride is £10 for adults of 16 and above and £5 for children, aged 12 to 15.

Registration for the 5km ride is £3 for children aged 11 and under.

For more details on how to register for the event contact the Swindon Bike Committee on 01454 454800 or email bristoloffice@cancer.org.uk. For information about the charity visit the website www.cancerresearchuk.org.