Brighton charity calls on cyclists to ride 'around the world' – in just 12 hours

Brighton Housing Trust is challenging cyclists to ride 66,792 laps of Preston Park Velodrome in 12 hours. This equates to 40,075km – the distance around the world. The fundraising event, which aims to raise £25,000 for First Base Day Centre, will take place on Sunday June 25 from 7am.

First Base offers a range of services to support those who are sleeping rough or who are insecurely housed in Brighton and Hove. This includes food, mental and physical health services, showers and clean and dry clothes. It also provides support to help them access employment and accommodation.

The Argus reports that the fundraising effort was launched by the mayor of Brighton and Hove, Pete West, and his driver Robert Robinson on their tandem.

Registration costs £10 for adults and £5 for children. There are cycling slots for children and adults, and for hand cyclists and adapted bicycles too. There’s also an exercise bike option for those who can’t make it to the track.

Prizes will be awarded for achievements such as the greatest number of completed laps and for most sponsorship raised.

You can register to take part at bht.org.uk or donate at Just Giving.

Simon Hughes, manager of First Base, said: “Every single person who takes part in the Around the World Cycle challenge will be helping us to make a real difference to the lives of people who need our services. It was with the support of the community that last year we were able to help 306 people to move off the streets.”