Cyclists signing up to compete in the annual Tour de Broads are being urged to help in the battler against cancer through their fundraising efforts.

Due to launch from the new PedalPark cycle track at Coltishall on Sunday, August 21, the event has raised thousands of pounds for charity over recent years.

And today Richardson's Tour de Broads cycling sportive has announced that Macmillan Cancer Support will be the official charity partner for a second year in 2016.

This will be the fourth Tour de Broads and the four routes available on the day will cover 16 broads, 4 rivers and traverse a variety of Broads villages.

A festival will be on during the day featuring live entertainment, a Woodforde's bar, and the custom built mountain bike trail – all set in the PedalPark.

Emily Ford, Challenge Events Manager at Macmillan said 'In 2015 we had over 120 people ride for Macmillan and we've raised £15,000 from the event.

'5,377 people in Norfolk are diagnosed with cancer every year and we predict that by 2030, the number of people living with or beyond cancer in Norfolk will fill Norwich City's Carrow Road stadium two and half times.

'We need everyone to get on board and help us make sure no one faces cancer alone.'

Robin Selley rode for Team MacMillan last year said the course provides a 'challenge'.

'For 2015 I set myself a fundraising challenge of taking part in five cycling events for Macmillan, starting with the Etape Loch Ness in April, London to Paris, the Ride London 100 and then the Tour o the Borders,' he said.

'The idea was to finish off with a fairly local event, in a lovely part of the country. After all the hills from the previous events, the Tour de Broads sounded just right, nice and flat.

'The route might be relatively flat but when the wind blows off the sea it makes the cycling tough, like turning the wheels in syrup. A super event, great countryside, quiet lanes and well organised.'

Event organiser Helen Rainbow said 'Our last event saw Tour de Broads doubling its entrants, and in 2016 we are expecting over 3,000 riders to take part, which is fantastic for this area.'

Local charity, Love The Broads will also be benefitting from this year's event. The charity awards grants to projects aimed at keeping the Broads special.

To register for a place in the Richardson's Tour de Broads go to macmillan.org.uk/biking or www.tourdebroads.com