SCORES of charity cyclists took to the roads of Dorset and Wiltshire on Sunday as they rode between the two Julia's House children's hospices.

The route went from its Dorset children’s hospice in Corfe Mullen, via four pit-stops across the two counties to the new Wiltshire hospice in the heart of Devizes, 100 kilometres away.

A quarter of the 200 cyclists doubled their efforts by completing a loop through the New Forest before finishing with the other riders.

Once in Devizes, cyclists were offered the chance to look around the new Wiltshire Children’s Hospice and get a glimpse of the wonderful facilities on offer for families when it opens for care sessions next month.

Among those taking part in the ride were two Julia’s House dads and the charity’s director of care, Ali Acaster.

Julia’s House challenge events organiser Hannah Miller said: “It was a fantastic day with lots of positive feedback from those taking part.

"It’s only the second year we have run the ride but it has become a firm favourite on our challenge calendar. We’ve already had lots of enquiries about next year.

“We only lost one cyclist - briefly - when he set off in the wrong direction, but we soon had him back on track!

“A special thank you must go to the army of volunteers who gave up their Sunday to support the ride - we couldn’t have done it without them.”

The Hospice to Hospice ride was sponsored by Vitality. Thanks are also being given to Braeside Education & Conference Centre for hosting the finish and Waitrose, Tesco, Morrisons, Volvic, Eat Natural, Dorset Flapjacks and Red Bull for supplying refreshments.

Julia’s House runs challenge events throughout the year including, running, cycling, hiking and skydiving events. To find out more visit juliashouse.org