A POPULAR fundraising event is back bigger than ever.

Farleigh Hospice is returning with the much-loved Cycle for Life later this year.

Like thousands of events across the country, organisers were forced to cancel the fundraiser last year due to Covid-19.

But this year the event is back, featuring routes to make the most of the local scenery.

Participants can choose from three routes, 20km, 50km or 100km.

Cycle for Life replies on riders raising as much as possible to enable Farleigh Hospice to continue to care for people in mid Essex affected by life-limiting illness and bereavement.

Participant from the 2019 event, Karen Esponda said: “It’s a fantastic event, all the cyclists are friendly and it’s a great route through the countryside.

"Farleigh means a lot to me, my dad spent his last few days there and the care was amazing. My mum went on to raise money for the hospice and it’s great to ride in their memory.”

This year there will also be a new virtual element.

Fundraising manager Debbie de Boltz said: “It’s great to be able to hold Cycle for Life again. It has always been a hit among the local community and we are sure that it will be well attended again this year by both previous participants and new riders.

"Every penny raised by participants will go towards helping us provide vital care and support to the local community free of charge. If cycling is not your thing but you’d still like to get involved, we are always grateful for volunteers to help on the day."

Farleigh Hospice are offering a discount for riders who register before September 13 with £10 off.

For more information or to register go to farleighhospice.org/virtual-cycle.