SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is once again encouraging riders to join its Ride to the Somme event taking place in May 2022.

The unique Ride to the Somme event is an opportunity for keen cyclists to raise funds to support the Armed Forces community.

Participants can choose between two routes: 50-miles-a-day or 75-miles-a-day allowing cyclists to ride in groups at a similar pace.

Ride to the Somme is a fully supported cycle ride based in Amiens, France, which provides a unique opportunity to discover the area's history, particularly as the location of the Battle of the Somme, where more than a million men were killed or wounded.

James Grant, head of individual giving and legacies at SSAFA, said: “SSAFA’s Ride to The Somme is a truly unique and humbling experience.

Dorset Echo: Ride to the Somme. Credit: Ben Queenborough

"Those lucky enough to take part will learn about the history of the battlefields and memorials of the Somme region, and the enormous sacrifices made so that we can enjoy our freedoms today. In addition, they will challenge themselves physically while raising vital funds for a wonderful charity and will make friends for life.

"Having taken part in 2017, 2018 and 2019 I cannot wait to get back on the bike for Ride to The Somme 2022 and recommend it highly to cyclists of all levels.”

The ride will take place between May 18 to May 22, 2022 and costs £125 to register with a fundraising target of £1,600.

Visit ssafa.org.uk to find out more.