Final ride beckons as Farleigh Hospice prepares for last-ever Cycle for Life

Cyclists will take to the roads around Chelmsford and the Essex countryside next weekend for the final-ever Farleigh Hospice Cycle for Life.

The much-loved sponsored cycling event will return for its "grand finale" on Sunday 20 September, bringing to an end years of fundraising rides in support of hospice care across mid Essex.

Organisers are hoping to make the farewell event one of the most memorable yet, with cyclists able to choose between three routes designed for everyone from families and beginners to experienced riders looking for a serious challenge.

All three rides will start and finish at Farleigh Hospice near Broomfield Hospital.

Three routes through the Essex countryside

The shortest option is a family-friendly 20km route, aimed particularly at beginners and those looking for a more relaxed ride.

A 50km route will take cyclists through the picturesque Rodings, while experienced riders can tackle the demanding 100km course.

The longest route includes part of the Essex section used during the 2014 Tour de France, when the world's most famous cycling race passed through the county.

Registration for the 100km ride takes place between 8am and 8.45am, followed by the 50km riders between 9am and 9.45am.

Those taking part in the 20km route can register between 10am and 10.45am.

End of an era for Farleigh fundraiser

Farleigh Hospice has described this year's Cycle for Life as a celebration of the community spirit, fundraising and thousands of miles ridden in support of the charity over the years.

The event has brought together experienced cyclists, families, friends and supporters while raising money towards the hospice's work supporting people affected by life-limiting illnesses.

Farleigh provides hospice care and support to people across mid Essex as well as helping their families and carers.

The charity says it wants the final Cycle for Life to celebrate everything the event and its participants have achieved.

Last chance to register in advance

Anyone wanting to be part of the final ride still has time to secure a place.

Advance registration will remain open until midday on Wednesday 16 September.

After that deadline, cyclists will only be able to register on the day and will have to pay the higher entry price.

Adult advance entry costs between £20 and £35 depending on the chosen route, while entry for riders aged 16 and under costs £5.

People who don't fancy getting on a bike can still become involved in the farewell event, with Farleigh Hospice also looking for volunteers to act as marshals along the routes or help at the start and finish.

For those who have ridden Cycle for Life in previous years, Sunday 20 September will offer one final opportunity to take part.

And for anyone who has always thought about entering but never quite got around to it, this year really will be the last chance.

After years of cyclists taking to the Essex roads to raise money for local hospice care, Farleigh Hospice's Cycle for Life is preparing for its final ride.