A NEW charity cycling event is coming to Hampshire next month to raise funds for Thruxton-based organisation, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Halo Sports, organiser of the Andover Cycling Festival, will be hosting the first Gravel Ride Cycle Sportive event on Saturday, April 2.

The event, supported by main sponsor AddVenture of Andover, will see participants take off-road routes along parts of the Test Way and Wayfarers Way.

The start finish line for the race is at Thruxton Motor Racing Circuit, while the route heads north through Collingbourne Woods and up to Chute Causeway, before arriving at the refreshment station at Hurstbourne Tarrant.

SEE ALSO: Andover Cycling Festival makes successful return to town

Participants can discover the old tracks and byways used by ancient Britons and Romans in northwest Hampshirey. The final few miles of the route head through easier terrain south of Andover and the picturesque villages and countrysidet.

With the longer 100km route offering a great challenge for the more experienced riders, there is also a 65km route ideal for those taking part in their first gravel event, plus a shorter 33km route option.

Owner of Halo Sports, Harry Lodge, said: “We look forward to welcoming both experienced riders and also riders wanting to try out gravel riding for the first time, with routes and distances to suit everyone. A great opportunity too for those wanting to return to outdoor group activities, while at the same time raising funds for a very worthy charity partner in Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.”

SEE ALSO: Air ambulance opening up recycling banks for donations to Ukraine

Entry to the 100km Route is £25 online or £30 on the day, the 65km Route is £20 online or £25 on the day, and the 33km route is £16 online or £20 on the day. For more event details and entry visit: addventuregrs.com.

Message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.