Registration for this year's Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is now open.

Supporters need to be quick as demand for the 600 places available is expected to be extremely high.

Last year, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the charity's 10th annual Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge was cancelled. This year, the event which normally takes place in May, has been moved to September to kick start Air Ambulance Week 2021.

Due to the change of date, the normal starting point of Watchet Harbour is not available, so this year's 55-mile route will start from Washford Cross Park and Ride in Watchet at 11am and finish in West Bay. A shorter 11-mile route starts at the Royal Oak pub in Drimpton at 2pm and also finishes in West Bay.

The Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is not designed as a race and involves cycling through some of Dorset and Somerset's most beautiful countryside. The two different routes and distances are suitable for people of all ages and ability.

With a mixture of quiet back roads, interspersed with some very demanding climbs and equally hairy descents, the event has something to offer for everyone. There are several pit-stops along the route, which provide a well-earned rest and refreshments for those that want it.

Participants can enter as an individual or as a team and the charity is hoping that anyone who is fortunate enough to gain a place, will also use the opportunity to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive officer, said: "It was terribly sad to have to cancel our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge in 2020 and then postpone again earlier this year. However, given the year we have just had, it now makes us extremely happy to be able to confirm the new date of Sunday, September 5.

"Over the past nine years, our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge has gathered amazing support, generating over £563,000 for the charity.

"Last year we were due to celebrate our 20th anniversary and our 10th annual Coast to Coast Challenge. Obviously, things changed very quickly - events were cancelled and fundraising opportunities were extremely limited.

"Our team is now ready for the challenge of making this year's event the best yet! If you are lucky enough to get a place, we can't wait to be by your side, just like so many of our supporters have been over the years."

Online registration is now open at dsairambulance.org.uk where more information can also be found.

Entrance fees for adults is £32 and for under 16s it's £12.

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