A CYCLE ride is set to return this year, this time prepared for Covid-19 obstacles.

Organised by Shaftesbury Rotary Club, it is hoped the charity bike ride will be able to go ahead on May 16 in a Covid-secure manner, after falling victim to the virus outbreak last year.

Measures will be in place including the event beginning at Castle Hill, enabling social distancing, and staggered starting times.

Money raised from sign up fees and sponsors will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK.

Whether the cycling novice or a seasoned rider, participants can either take part in a 12, 25 or 50-mile route, boasting the sites of north Dorset.

The challenge will finish with a cycle up Gold Hill, pictured.

BV Dairy is sponsoring the event, and commercial director Harry Cowan said: “We are both excited and privileged to be involved as sponsors of this important event.

"It was disappointing that due to Covid restrictions the 2020 event had to be postponed, but we are certain that the excellent work carried out by Shaftesbury Rotary Club and its volunteers will result in an even bigger, better and well supported event for 2021 – and with that raise vital funds for Prostate Cancer UK research.

"As a local company we wish the organisers a successful event and look forward to entering our own competitive team which, no doubt, will be headed up by our managing director Jim Highnam - who himself is a keen cyclist!”

In 2019 a cheque for £6,000 was handed to Prostate Cancer UK. Other local charities have also benefited from donations in the past.

For more information and to register for this year's cycle visit the Shaftesbury Rotary Club website.