The ride takes in some lovely views, like this one of the River Dart at Buckfast - right next to the start and finish line

Get "on yer bikes" for charity
The lifting of foot-and-mouth restrictions across Dartmoor means that a charity bike ride - cancelled earlier this year - can now go ahead after all.

The Dartmoor Cycle Challenge is taking place on Sunday, August 19th - three months after it was due to be held. The closure of much of the moor meant that the organisers, the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust, had no choice but to postpone the event.

The map shows the two routes

It's now all hands to the pump to get the message around that the ride - which is NOT a race - is all set for the 19th. The ride starts and finishes at the steam railway station in Buckfastleigh, and cyclists get a choice of routes. One is 50 miles long, and the other 27 - both are described as "moderate to tough."

They each pass Widecombe-in-the-Moor, and the longer route then takes the Dartmoor Way to Moretonhampstead, before heading down to Princetown and then back to Buckfastleigh. The shorter route goes from Widecombe to Dartmeet and back to Buckfastleigh.

You need to be fit to take on the challenge

You have to be reasonably fit for the ride, but it's not a race so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery.

The routes feature a a variety of cycling challenges, taking in sheltered valleys around the moorland edge, as well as some steep climbs.

On the plus side, there are also downhill bits, and the event is regarded as suitable for all the family. There are back-up facilities, including support vehicles, mechanics, First Aid and refreshment stops.

The routes are also well signposted. Everyone who finishes will receive an official certificate and medal to mark their achievement of cycling the Dartmoor Challenge.

Last year, the event attracted 500 cyclists

This is the second year of the event. Last year's ride attracted 500 cyclists and raised £15,000 for the trust. Numbers are bound to be down this year because of the re-scheduling.

The organisers say they would prefer people to book in advance, but, with cyclists due from all over the country, they are expecting some to register on the day. Entry is £9.50 per person and information is available on 01865 875757 or 01225 480130.

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