CYCLISTS of all ages will be braving saddle sores at the Crudwell Le Mans 24-hour bike ride, when it starts on Saturday.

The event takes in a seven-mile circuit from the village hall up to Ashley and part of the Fosse Way.

There will be around 400 riders taking part in 23 teams from around the country, who will ride in relay starting at noon on Saturday and finish at the same time the next day.

Secretary of the organising committee, Jane Straughan, said the popularity of the event had really taken off.

"It is amazing that a little village the size of Crudwell with a small local community has a big event like this with so many teams and riders."

The ride is done in aid of charity which this year is Cancer Research UK and money will also be given to other local charities.

Spectators can expect some wacky riders if previous events are anything to go by and there are prizes for teams who make the most money and complete the fastest lap.

Mrs Straughan said: "Last year a team called the Flying Farting Fire Fairies got a special award when they did the course on a monkey bike. Everybody really cheered them on."