CYCLISTS of all abilities and ages are encouraged to take part in the annual Le Tour de Waltham Forest to raise cash for charity.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 24, in aid of Haven House Children’s Hospice in High Road, Woodford Green.

With four different routes through Walthamstow Mashes, there will be something suitable for all the family. The toughest route will take cyclists on a 27 mile journey.

Entry for the family friendly routes is free and it costs £10 to enter for the gold and platinum rides. All entrants will be in with a chance of winning a selection of prizes such as bikes and cycling accessories.

A special prize of £100 worth of vouchers is on offer for the most creative cyclist.

So far almost 600 people have signed up to take part in the ride..

The rides will start and finish at Leyton Jubilee Park in Seymour Road, Leyton. The Summer Fest will take place in the park on the same day.

Cllr Clyde Loakes, deputy leader of and cabinet member for the environment, said: “Le Tour de Waltham Forest is fantastic way to discover some of the great green spaces we are lucky to enjoy in the borough, while at the same time raising money to support the Haven House Children's Hospice.

“For less experienced riders it's a chance to pick up top cycling tips from experts like Dr. Bike, and I'd encourage anyone who thinks they're up to the challenge to sign up.”