CYCLISTS are getting ready to ride 100 miles one-way—from Stratford to Stratford.

The organisers of this year’s annual MacRide want 100 riders to do the 100 miles in aid of the 100th anniversary of the Macmillan Cancer Support charity in April.

But the route isn’t as odd as it suggests. The two-day sponsored cycle on April 30 and May 1 begins near the 2012 Olympics site in Stratford, follows almost traffic-free paths through East London along the River Lea up to Hertfordshire before heading through rolling farmland and scenic country views up to the ‘other’ Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire.

Volunteers with vehicles and baggage transport are being laid on along the cross-country route that’s suitable for novices, with some training, yet still challenging for seasoned cyclists.

“It’s more than just a ride,” said organiser Rob Gullen. “It’s a two-day opportunity to celebrate Macmillan’s Centenary and raise more money for the vital work it carries out.”

He wants riders to raise at least �100 each, which would add up to a minimum �10,000 for the charity.

Overnight B&B accommodation is included in the �59.50 registration fee, bookable online at www.macride-tour.org.uk.