PEWSEY based military charity the British Forces Foundation is urging residents to get on their bike for a 100-mile race.

They are appealing for more people to join their 144-strong team for this year's Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 cycle event.

It starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London then follows a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey’s countryside

Around 20,000 riders will gather at the start line of the 100-mile course on Sunday, July 31.

The BFF, which boosts the morale of British servicemen and women all over the world through entertainment, has purchased the RideLondon golden bond places and each rider is asked to commit to raising a minimum £500 for the charity.

It has also teamed up with local cycle shop Pewsey Velo which is offering all team BFF riders discount across all items in the store.

Mark Cann, CEO of BFF, said: “The charity is hoping to get a Wiltshire community of riders to enjoy this very special fun event. The money they raise will cover the costs of the places in RideLondon and help fund shows for our amazing troops.

“These shows, paid for by sponsorship money and donations, convey the gratitude of the British public for the fantastic work of our servicemen and women and the sacrifices they are prepared to make.”

Anyone wishing to join team BFF for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 can email cycle@bff.org.uk or telephone (01672) 564911. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.