REGISTRATION for a charity cycle taking in some of Somerset and Dorset’s most spectacular scenery is open.

The 2024 Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is set to hit the road on Saturday, May 18.

Cyclists can opt to take on one of two routes on the day – a 55-mile trek from Watchet Harbour in west Somerset to West Bay, Dorset, or an 11-mile route from the Royal Oak in Drimpton, also finishing at West Bay.

The Watchet cycle gets underway at 10.30am, with the Drimpton leg starting at 2pm.

Organisers said the routes feature a mixture of quiet back roads, some very demanding climbs and equally hairy descents, along with handy refreshment points along the way, offering something for everyone.

There are only 600 places available for the rides, with participants able to enter as an individual or as a team.

Anyone fortunate enough to gain a place is being asked to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.

Emma Jones, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance fundraising manager, said: “Next year’s Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge has moved back to its usual calendar spot in May and we really can’t wait to see everyone on the day.

“This will be our 13th year running this popular cycling event which brings people from across our two beautiful counties together, including patients who have experienced the work of our service first-hand, those who are cycling in memory of loved ones, or those who simply want to challenge themselves and support the charity in return.”

She added: “Last year, our crew were tasked to 2,424 incidents; as an air ambulance service, we’re the busiest we’ve ever been.

“With the number of missions increasing each year and our operational costs rising, we really hope that those who are fortunate enough to gain a place will use this as an opportunity to raise as much as possible for our life-saving service.”

Entrance fees for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge are:
• 11-mile route: Adults (£20) & Under 16′s (£10)
• 55-mile route: Adults (£40) & Under 16′s (£20)

For more information and to sign up for the 2024 Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge, visit www.dsairambulance.org.uk/c2c.