UP TO 500 cyclists will wheel into Whitchurch next month to help raise money for school projects in the town.

The Whitchurch Primary Pedal will take place on Sunday, 10 May with cyclists coming from across the region to take part in a charity ride through the stunning North Wessex Downs.

Cyclists who take part in the event, organised by Test Valley Cycling Club, will start at Whitchurch Primary school before heading out on set routes through the area of outstanding natural beauty.

Riders will cycle either 20, 40 or 60 mile routes through country lanes before circling back to Whitchurch finishing up in the town.

The yearly event, which attracted nearly 250 cyclists in 2014, is in aid of Friends of Whitchurch Primary School (FOWPS) who will receive 40 per cent of money raised.

Students from Testbourne Community School, who will marshal the event, will also receive 40 per cent of the money as part of efforts to raise £9,000 to fund a trip to the Ugandan town of Mityana next February.

The remaining 20 per cent will go to Test Valley Cycling Club, who will use the money to fund family friendly cycling events in the town.

Club captain Mike Stead said: “I used to run international races in New Zealand and I thought this would be something everyone would want to do.

“Where we live is fabulous for riding and whenever people come down they are blown away because you can ride for 60 miles and hardly see a car.

“The event was phenomenally successful last year and 98 per cent of people wanted to do it again.”

The event is still open for entrants Visit primarypedal.org.uk/