Trevor Lock, 76, and his wife Pauline, 74, of Cedar Crescent, Selby, are currently in training for the event and are hoping their two daughters and two grandchildren will join them for the 25-mile fund-raiser on May 11.

Despite taking part in the event on five previous occasions, Mr Lock was forced to pull out last year as he underwent surgery on an arthritic hip. This year it's also a race against time for his wife to take part as she's recovering from a broken arm.

Mr Lock said: "This is a great occasion and I'm looking forward to raising money for charity. I took part in the event a few years ago with my daughter Janet Hirst and my two grandchildren, and I hope I can repeat that experience this time.

"I've always been a keen cyclist and prefer the bike to the car, and regularly take trips to the local bowling club and the leisure centre. This is a little further but I'm sure it will be enjoyable. I've raised hundreds of pounds for charity over the years, and I hope to add to charity coffers again this year."

The Selby Times-sponsored event is organised by Selby District Lions. Entry forms can be picked up from the Selby Times office, Selby Bike Centre and Halifax Building Society, all in Gowthorpe, as well as Halfords at the Three Lakes Retail Park in Bawtry Road and all other cycle shops in the area.

Money raised will be shared between the British Heart Foundation, Martin House Hospice, St Leonard's Hospice, the Arthritis Research campaign and Selby Lions' local charities.

Bikers can enter the 25 or 45-mile circuits, both starting outside Barlby High School at 10am. Fee for the longer route is £3 for adults, £1.50 for under-16s, while the shorter route costs £2.50 for adults and £1.25 for juniors. Teams of six can enter for £12. Buy the Selby Times to keep updated on the big day.