THE Rotary Club of Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham has been raising money for local and international charities for over 40 years and in that time have raised many thousands of pounds.

The club is now offering local clubs, organisations and families the opportunity to raise money for their own favourite charities by organising a Mountain Bike Ride in Langdon Hills Country Park.

It will take place on Sunday, October 14 and Rotary members will be arranging marshalling, safety cover, first aid, liquid refreshments, necessary approvals and route marking.

You just need to cycle the route and collect the money for your charity. If you do not have a particular charity to support you may wish to consider raising money for Rotary.

The route is 7.5 kilometres (5 miles) and has an overall height climb of 110 metres.

It will be mainly over cycle ways within the park with a short distance on roads.

There is a choice of doing 1, 2 or 3 laps of the course.

Start times will be staggered to ease congestion on the route, starting at 9 am with the last start at 1 pm; all riders must be finished by 3 pm.

The route is particularly suited to mountain bikes and not suitable for young children.

A club spokesperson said: "You will experience the lovely scenery of the Country Park covering the One Tree Hill area and Westley Heights. There are views of the River Thames to the South and you will pass through woodland and open areas.

"You would normally find various birds and animals within the park but they are likely to be hiding away with the number of bikes going round, however the trees and plants will still be on display.

"This is intended to be a leisurely cycle around the park taking in the views and scenery and is not a race. Take part and enjoy yourself.

"Liquid refreshment points will be available around the route, toilets will be available at the start and finish and first aid cover will be provided.

"If you have any problems on the route, marshals will be at strategic points and will be able to offer assistance. Certificates will be offered to all who complete the course."

Entry fee is £5 per rider. Places are limited to reduce congestion on the paths so early booking is advised.

Any profit made on the day will be paid into the Rotary Charity Trust Fund and used to support local charities.

For further information email info@rotary-sandc.org.uk