HUNDREDS of cyclists are gearing up for this year’s Tour de Tendring.

There are just a couple of weeks to go until the popular annual event takes place on Sunday, May 14.

Organisers say they are on a par with previous year’s entries and are once again looking to smash the 1,000 mark.

The event is aimed at all ages and is an opportunity for families to get together for a fun day out.

It is one of the biggest events on Tendring’s calendar and always attracts a bumper entry of local riders as well as those from further afield.

The Tour de Tendring is now in its 24th year and is put on by Bike Events in partnership with Tendring Council.

There are three distances to suit all aspirations starting with the family six miles, going up to 20 miles and then a 60-miler which takes in a large part of the very best of the district.

Attractions and entertainment will be provided throughout the day at the start and finish point at Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles, in Low Road.

The start time for the two longer distances is between 8.30am and 9.30am, while those heading off on the six miles will depart between 9.30am and 10.30am.

Tanya Ferguson, the council's cabinet member for tourism and culture, said her fingers will be crossed for fine weather on the day and a great turnout.

“The Tour de Tendring has been going for more than two decades now and is very well supported,” she said.

“Cycling – whether it is competitive or just for fun – continues to grow in popularity and we have been proud to host two Women’s Tour races in the district in 2014 and 2015 and we have a time trial for the Tour of Britain in September.

“It is a sport that has become part of our calendar in recent years and I hope that the legacy lives on and continues to encourage more people to get in the saddle as we try to promote healthier lifestyles and wellbeing.”

She added that the Tour de Tendring is also an ideal way for clubs and groups to get together to raise lots of money for their chosen charities.

For more information about the event and to sign up, go to bike-events.com.