A FATHER and son team are saddling up for a 100-mile cycle challenge to support Cotswold Care Hospice.

Alan Simmons, his 22-year-old son Jonty and family friend Ross Venus are taking part in the Prudential RideLondon 100 on August 10.

The event starts at Olympic Park and finishes in The Mall and follows the route used in London 2012 cycling road race, including the notorious climb up Box Hill in Surrey.

The trio aim to raise £2,500 for the Minchinhampton-based Cotswold Care Hospice.

Alan, executive director of learning and development at St James’s Place in Cirencester, took part in the inaugural event last year.

“Jonty and Ross were both watching and said they wished they had taken part so we decided to do it together this year and take the opportunity to raise money for the Hospice,” said the 55-year-old from Chippenham.

Alan is a director trustee for Cotswold Care Hospice.

“My mother was supported by a local hospice so I have a personal understanding of the vital services hospices provide,” he said.

Alan cycles about 25 miles a week and will start his training by steadily increasing his mileage.

He says the trio will enjoy participating in the event together but that there may be a bit of competition as they near the finish line.

“Jonty and I enjoy doing sport together but I suspect there may be a competitive element at the last minute as we make the final dash down The Mall,” said Alan.

Sponsor Alan on virginmoneygiving.com/simmonsvenus