Cyclists from West Cumbria are gearing up to take part in RideLondon.

This year’s race starts at Olympic Park on Sunday, July 31 and follows a 100-mile route through London and into the Surrey countryside.

Among this year’s riders is Andrew Callaway, of Seadown Drive, High Harrington, who is taking part for the third time.

He is raising funds for Bliss, a charity that supports families who have had premature babies.

Mr Callaway, who turns 54 on Sunday, raised £1,049 for the charity by taking part in last year’s RideLondon.

His two children Josh, 26, and Miriam, 25, were both born prematurely.

Josh was born eight weeks early, weighing only four pounds, and Miriam was born six weeks early, weighing six pounds.

Andrew and his wife Carol were both supported by Bliss.

He said: “I want to keep supporting the charity as there are still parents needing help.

“Last year was quite a smooth race and I did it in five-and-a-half hours and this year I’m looking to do it a bit quicker and be nearer to five hours.

Mr Callaway, who is head of science at St Benedict’s School in Whitehaven, hopes to beat last year’s total this year.

James Reid, who works for the Cumberland FA in Workington, is also entering the ride. He is taking part along with Andrew Hurley, his son Andrew Junior and Don Haslett who are all from Whitehaven.