A HOSPICE charity is calling on supporters to saddle up for the first ever virtual Prudential RideLondon.

My Prudential RideLondon will take place on August 15 and 16 to celebrate cycling and raise funds to help charities such as Havens Hospices.

Havens has been hugely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic as fundraising events such as Prudential RideLondon could not go ahead as planned.

The free event can be completed in any location and offers people, of all ages and abilities, the chance to tackle a range of distances based on the contests included in the traditional Prudential RideLondon weekend.

Alastair Kendrick, of Rayleigh, has already committed to supporting Havens by cycling 100 miles in My Prudential RideLondon.

He said: “I’m glad that Prudential RideLondon is continuing virtually this year so I can continue raising money for Havens Hospices, a terrific local charity in much need of funds.

“I love taking part in the usual event as it’s a great distance to ride, with the added benefit of being on closed roads with some challenging hills.

“For this year’s event I hope to complete 100 miles, cycling closer to home through south Essex, and I can’t wait to raise as much money as possible.”

The event will raise crucial funds to allow Havens to continue providing free palliative and supportive care to adults and children across Essex.

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Emma Hamilton a fundraiser at Havens, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Prudential RideLondon is going ahead virtually this month so we can continue to raise money for our essential hospice care during these difficult times where our income has taken a big hit due to the pandemic.

“The virtual event is completely free and offers a fundraising challenge for everyone, whether that’s an amateur rider doing 100 miles or a family enjoying a 1km bike ride spending quality time together during the summer holidays.

“Our free hospice care can only exist because of the support and generosity of the community taking part in events and challenges like My Prudential RideLondon so grab your wheels, have fun and cycle for local hospice care.”

For more information, visit havenshospices.org.uk/ridelondon.