Victoria Pendleton is supporting the Ride for Rowcroft cycle challenge.

The double Olympic and nine time World Champion cyclist is encouraging cyclists to sign up and fundraise for the event.

On Sunday, October 14, the Ride for Rowcroft cycle challenge will be returning to the picturesque surroundings of South Devon to raise funds for Rowcroft Hospice.

The previous two events has helped to raise more than £100,000 to help support the 2,000 people cared for by the hospice staff.

In 2017, more than 450 participants took on the challenging 24km route through Chudleigh Knighton, Bovey Tracey and Teign Valley.

As well as repeating last year’s route, the event is launching a new 32km challenge called the Haytor Hillclimb.

Utilising tarmacked roads, country lanes and a surfaced cycle path, this is ideal for cyclists looking to complete their first challenge, beat a personal best or just enjoy a morning ride with friends.

Victoria Pendleton CBE said: “I encourage as many people as possible to take to the open road in the beautiful South Devon countryside for this great event.

“Whether you’re a regular cyclist going against the clock, a group of friends who enjoy riding together or just fancy challenging yourself to complete the course, I really hope lots of people will join in to make this the biggest and best year yet.

“Cycling is a fantastic way to get outside, to be active or just to spend time with the family, and it helps us all look after our physical and mental wellbeing.

“Fundraising events such as Ride for Rowcroft raise vital funds to help people living with a life limiting illness across South Devon to make the most of every moment they have with their families.

“Every pound raised makes a huge difference so please sign up today and support the amazing work the Rowcroft Hospice do in your community. And you’ll have lots of fun on your bike along the way too.”

Victoria is also a partner of Halfords which is kindly supporting Ride for Rowcroft with donations of competition prizes and supporting riders with free bike checks and 10 per cent discounts at the Torquay and Newton Abbot stores.

All riders are encouraged to collect sponsorship to help support the ongoing care Rowcroft Hospice provides for people living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon.