We may be in the middle of summer but organisers of the annual Farnham Charity Bike Ride are encouraging cyclists to prepare for this year’s event in early autumn.

The 2025 ride will be on Sunday, September 21 and there are four routes to suit different abilities and staminas. Electric bikes are welcome and children can enter free of charge.

The shortest is a 16-mile circular route from Farnham that passes through Dippenhall, Crondall, Lower Froyle and Bentley.

There’s an extension of this, taking in Long Sutton, Binsted and Blacknest and adding nine miles, while seasoned cyclists may want to opt for the original 50-mile route. If that is not challenge enough there is a 75-mile route which takes in Butser Hill, the South Downs’ highest point, and involves 5,400 feet of climbing.

Many of the riders will be raising money for their own chosen charities and all profit from ticket sales goes to local causes, with this year’s charity partner being The Royal Surrey Hospital.

Rebecca Guyver, a parent at St Andrew’s School and one of the organisers, said: “Last year we raised tens of thousands of pounds and we’d love to make this year even more successful.

“The ride started 17 years ago when St Andrew’s Infant School needed a new roof and a group of clever parents thought up the event.

“As it grew, the Farnham Round Table got involved and we are very grateful to them for so many years of hard work. In recent years, they have handed the baton over to the Farnham Hedgehogs who have risen to the challenge.

“If you are interested in sponsoring the event, we have some very competitive packages and we would be delighted to collaborate with local businesses.”

To find out more and to buy tickets visit www.farnhamcharitybikeride.co.uk