CYCLISTS are being encouraged to get on their bikes to help raise funds for Stroud Valleys Project.

BPI Poly, the polyethylene recycling factory on the Bath Road Industrial Estate in Stroud, which has just installed a new bike shed, is among the first organisations to sign up for the annual bicycle ride.

Registration has now officially opened for the event on Sunday, June 22.

SVP chief executive Clare Mahdiyone said: “We are pleased to have the support of BPI this year.

“We hope it will encourage more people to get involved.

“This makes a tremendous difference to our fundraising target of £2,000. Last year was a great success, and this year we hope to raise even more money.”

Starting and finishing at the Jubilee Gates in Stratford Park, the ride consists of various routes to suit all ages and abilities which offer pleasant cycling along several country lanes.

The rides of 12, 20 and 36 miles all head out into the Severn Vale, with routes taking in areas where SVP has carried out conservation work in recent years.

Refreshments will be served at the Museum in the Park and there will be a band playing in the park.

Staged during national Bike Week, the ride is a collaboration between SVP, the Museum in the Park, James and Owen, Cytec and Noah’s Ark bike shop.

The cost is adults £5, friends of SVP and SVP volunteers £3, 14-18 year olds £3 and groups of 10 or more £40.

To register, visit: www.stroudvalleysproject.org or drop into the SVP shop at: 8 Threadneedle Street, Stroud.

Noah’s Ark, in Brimscombe, is offering free bike checks to riders.

Cyclists can also register on the day in the courtyard of the Museum in the Park.