CYCLISTS are gearing up for the Dorset and Somerset Coast to Coast (C2C) this Sunday, May 17.

The annual event, which is not a race, involves a challenging 54-mile cycle ride which starts at Watchet Harbour and ends at West Bay in Dorset.

This is its fifth year, and a staggered start will mean the stronger cyclists will set off first at 11am and the less experienced cyclists will depart at 11.15am.

A shorter 11-mile route starts at the Royal Oak pub in Drimpton at 2pm, also finishing at West Bay.

Last year’s event saw cyclists of all ages and abilities raise more than £60,000 for the life-saving charity.

Supporters will be able to encourage the 600 cyclists on the route or at one of the four allocated pit-stops at Bishops Lydeard Football Club, Creech St Michael, Ilminster Ambulance Station and the Royal Oak in Drimpton.

Finish line celebrations will take place at East Beach Car Park in West Bay when cyclists are expected to start arriving from around 2pm.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive, said: “We are delighted that this event is so well supported and it seems to get better year on year.

“The atmosphere amongst the cyclists and those who support them at the start, en-route and at the finishing point is incredible.

“This is our fifth year in the saddle and we are hoping it will be the best C2C Cycle Challenge yet.

“Our thanks go to our wonderful team of volunteers, members of the public and local businesses who are helping with marshalling and helping to keep cyclists safe.”

You can donate to the event at dsairambulance.org.uk or by texting: COAS05 £5 to 70070.

Visit dsairambulance.org.uk or call 01823 669604.