Hundreds of cyclists including TV presenter Fern Britton will descend on Aylesbury next Sunday (March 24).
The Chilterns Cycle Challenge in aid of Iain Rennie Hospice At Home launches in the morning from Kingsbury.
From there sponsored cyclists will ride out into the countryside on a choice of routes before returning to town.
Last year’s event raised more than £40,000 and with the success of Bradley Wiggins and Team GB since then, it is hoped this year’s total will be even bigger.
Those taking part include Jim Bradbury from Weston Turville and Glen Pywell from Aylesbury and, both opting for the 35 mile route.
Jim will be taking part for the third time. Nine years ago, his wife Helena was diagnosed with bowel cancer and as part of her recovery she took part in the first Iain Rennie Goodnight Walk.
Since then not only has Helena herself taken part in three more Goodnight Walks and completed the London Marathon, but Jim has also run six half marathons as well as the London Marathon and the Chilterns Cycle Challenge twice before.
Jim said: “I think we must have raised in excess of £6,000 now to help fund the 24/7 hospice at home service.
“We were lucky that Helena did not need to call on the Iain Rennie nurses but we both fully appreciate the value of the service they offer and are really pleased to be able to fundraise for such a worthwhile cause.
“It’s quite special cycling through our beautiful local countryside and the whole challenge has a good atmosphere as well as a great sense of reward at the end.”
The longest distance that Glen has cycled before is 10 miles so the 35 mile route definitely represents a challenge.
Glen, who works for Grass Roots in Stoke Mandeville, said: “I thought this would be a great way to start 2013. When I saw that the Chilterns Cycle Challenge was taking place in March right on my doorstep in Aylesbury, it seemed like to perfect thing to do to incentivise my fitness drive even further.”
Fern Britton, a committed supporter of the hospice, will be joining the cyclists. She said: “I can promise everyone who signs up for this event a fantastic day.
Registration for the event is open now and costs £15 for adults with cheaper prices for children. To register call 01442 820740.