A new family-friendly route is being introduced to a fundraising cycle ride which has helped raise hundreds of pounds for charity.

Organisers are gearing up for the return of the Big Cycle Ride, which is being sponsored by Norwich-based solicitors Cozens-Hardy, at Blickling Estate, near Aylsham, on Sunday, July 17.

The event, which includes three scenic 25-mile road loops through some of the area's most spectacular scenery, has raised over £2,400 for Norfolk cancer charity Big C over the last two years and it's hoped that the new 3.5km off road loop will encourage more people to take part than ever before.

Anna Farquharson, Cozens-Hardy Marketing Partner, said: 'We are so pleased to be able to increase our support of Big C in their anniversary year and to offer a new dimension to our event with the off-road loop. Whether you are a regular

cyclist, a novice or a family looking for something to do at the weekend, we can offer a relaxed, fun day out in the Norfolk countryside.'

The event, run by Push Sport on behalf of Cozens-Hardy, is located to take advantage of some of the county's best cycling lanes and byways. The three 25-mile road routes each start and end at event HQ on Blickling Estate, with riders able to choose which – and how many – loops they wish to ride on the day.

The event is run under British Cycling rules, but entrants don't have to ride a fancy bike to enter – last year witnessed traditional shoppers alongside mountain bikes and road bikes.

The 3.5km off road route is ideal for any ability and is particularly suitable for children, offering a traffic-free route with stunning view of Blickling Estate.

Organisers are also offering skills sessions for children during the day. Discounted entry to Blicking house and gardens will be available for riders, their families and friends, while event HQ will offer mechanical support and refreshments all day, as well as free face painting from 11am to 2pm.

And, to celebrate Big C's 35th anniversary, £3.50 from each entry fee will be going directly to the local cancer charity.

Dr Chris Bushby, Chief Executive Officer at Big C, said: 'The Cozens-Hardy Cycle Ride is a well established event, endorsed by British Cycling, that has raised significant funds for Big C over the past two years. Having approached CozensHardy at the start of the year to become partners in their event we were delighted when they agreed. We are very proud of the renamed 'Cozens-Hardy Big Cycle Ride' and all that it offers particip ants, in particular the lovely 3.5km off road loop for families and the £3.50 contribution to Big C from each and every entry fee.

'This is one of our flagship Challenge 35 events for 2016 and I hope lots of families and cycling enthusiasts will come and enjoy all that's on offer in and around Blickling Estate on Sunday, July 17.'

Further information and entry details can be found at the event website: www.thecozenshardybigcycleride.co.uk The entry cost is £20 per head. Children under 16 years ride for free when accompanied by an adult.

A Big C fundraising pack can be found on the website, offering a free Big C breathable T-shirt and sweatband for anyone that signs up. There is no fee for riding the off-road loop, although a donation to Big C on the day is encouraged.