CYCLISTS are gearing up for this weekend's Castle Bike Ride for the Swindon Cancer Appeal.

Hundreds of cyclists are expected to turn up for the ride on Sunday.

Last year's event raised around £8,300 and attracted about 300 riders but organisers of the ride, which is supported by the Evening Advertiser, are confident they will beat that total.

There are three different courses for riders with distances ranging from 10 miles to 25.

The ride starts at the Croft Sports Centre, in Old Town, Swindon.

The routes for the three rides 10, 15 and 25 miles take riders on a scenic tour of the northern end of the Marlborough Downs, across the ancient path of the Ridgeway passing Barbury Castle.

Entry for the event is £5 in advance, and accompanied children under 16 cost £2 with entries on the day costing £10.

The closing date for entries is Thursday June 2.

The minimum age is 12, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information visit the bike ride's website at: www.castlesbikeride.co.uk or telephone 01793 521630.