Cyclists of all ages are being urged to get on their bikes at this year's South Herts Bikeathon, which now includes a special children's ride. The event takes place on Sunday April 26, and will raise funds for Leukaemia Research, the charity dedicated to finding better treatments and cures for leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

The Bikeathon is a perfect day out for all the family, suiting people of all cycling abilities. For the first time this year it includes a marshalled children's route in the grounds of Haberdashers' Aske's School, suitable for children up to 14 years of age.

The adult route starts and finishes at the Haberdashers' Aske's Boys School in Elstree, and the event will run from 10am-3pm.

Entrants will pedal around the 19-mile route through Elstree, Borehamwood, Ridge, Shenley and Radlett with breathtaking views of the Hertfordshire countryside.

The Bikeathon route will be signposted and marshalled, with refreshment stops, and all riders will receive a free T-shirt and commemorative medal on completion of the route.

There will also be a prize for the top adult fundraiser and top child fundraiser. In addition, at the start and finish there will be a tombola and stalls offering a range of fun games and activities for all ages.

Event organisers Michelle Abello from Shenley and Liz Costello from Borehamwood became involved with the Radlett and Borehamwood voluntary Branch of Leukaemia Research after leukaemia touched their lives.

Liz suffered from leukaemia ten years ago and Michelle lost her baby cousin, Charlotte, to the disease.

Michelle said: "Whether you're looking for a fitness challenge or a great day out, our Bikeathon can be fun for all the family. The previous South Herts Bikeathons raised close to £20,000 so we're hoping to boost that total this year!''

Liz added: ''If everyone raises sponsorship money together we will be able to make a difference to the lives of those affected by leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and other blood cancers. Give us a call to find out more, we'd love to hear from you."

For local information, contact Michelle Abello on 07977 075 792 or Liz Costello on 0779 034 9960.

To register, you can speak to Matt Short, Leukaemia Research Bikeathon Coordinator on 020 7269 9009, email mshort@lrf.org.uk or visit www.bikeathon.co.uk

Entry fees are £7 or £5 for juniors (children between 7-15). Entrants under 16 must have parent/guardian's authority to take part and if under 11, must be supervised by a participating adult cyclist. There is a family fee of £20 (2 adults and 2 children). People can also register on the day, for £10 per adult, £5 per child but may not receive T-shirt or medal.