HUNDREDS of cyclists will ride through the beautiful Dorset countryside this weekend to raise money in the fight against cancer.

The Daily Echo-backed Rotary Dorset Bike Ride returns for its eighth year on Sunday (September 8) and will set off from Longthorns Campsite in Wareham which is located next to Monkey World.

Cyclists will have the chance to take in stunning scenery and views along the way from Corfe Castle to West Lulworth, Shipton Gorge to West Compton and Milton Abbas to Bere Regis.

Cyclists of all abilities and ages will take part in the ride which features eight routes ranging from 10 miles to an epic 108 miles.

Last year more than 730 riders from across Dorset and southern England raised nearly £50,000 for Cancer Research UK.

This year Westbourne Rotary Club, which organises the event, is hoping to raise even more, and since 2012, more than £300,000 has been raised for the cancer charity.

Online registration is now closed but entry costs £30 on the day for the 108, 80 and 70 mile routes and £20 for 10 to 55 mile routes.

Entry is free for under 16s taking part in the 10 to 35 mile routes and half price for other routes.

Included in the registration is free parking, free food stations and even free messages.

Speaking to the Echo earlier this year, Richard Burnett from Westbourne Rotary, said: “We are optimistic that we can raise around £50,000 again this year, thanks to the support of the hundreds of cyclists who come along to take part in the event.

“Cancer Research UK is at the forefront of helping to find new cures for cancer. Those taking part in the 2019 Rotary Dorset Bike Ride will be helping to push the research boundaries once again so we can increase survival rates beyond the current 50 per cent over 10 years.”

For more details visit dorset-bike-ride.co.uk.