THURROCK's annual Cycle Marathon, organised by the Rotary Club of Mar Dyke Valley, will take place on Sunday, 9 June - starting from Blackshots Leisure Centre.

Riders can sign up on the day (or online at www.thurrockcyclemarathon.co.uk) and take part in a seven mile event or the longer 21 mile route around the borough's rural roads.

Both will be well-managed by club officials and volunteers and there will be refreshment stops available.

New borough Mayor Cllr Kairen Raper will set the riders on their way at 9.30am.

Riders can link up in groups to be sponsored, or can take part for their own individual good causes.

Entry is £10 for adults and children under 16 ride for free. Though you can sign up online, payment will have to be made on the day. You can download an entry form in advance via this link, which also contains sponsorship forms and route details.

Over the years the event has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for many local good causes and the Rotary Club will be looking to support riders and their selected charities with a share of any proceeds from the event.