THIS weekend will see cyclists from across the Black Country and beyond take to the streets, raising money for the Stourbridge News Well of Life appeal.

Sunday’s Halesowen One Hundred Cycling Sportive will donate its profits towards the News appeal, which is installing a water pump in the Gambian village of Sintet, and a famous face will once again send the riders on their way at the start the event.

Former world cycling champion and BBC commentator Hugh Porter will drop the starting flag for the 100km course this Sunday (August 30) at Halesowen Athletic & Cycling Club’s Manor Abbey stadium.

While not a race, all riders will be issued with a timing chip to record their overall time for completing the route of their choice – either 100km or 50km.

Paul Barker, event organiser and coach at Halesowen Athletic and Cycling Club, said: “We have now doubled the number of entrants to more than 80 riders in the past month and we still have a week to go, with on the day entrants welcome.

“It has also been confirmed that former world champion Hugh Porter MBE will again drop the flag on the start of the 100k course and hopefully join in on the 50k course itself.”

During the event, the club will offer a range of facilities throughout the day including refreshments, licensed bar, showers and live music.

Free car parking will be provided by local business Sandvik, while Dudley Council have agreed to close part of the inside lane of Manor Way to ensure a safe start for the cyclists leaving the club.

For more information, or to enter the event, visit tinyurl.com/halesowenonehundred