WEST Somerset cyclists will be among 500 riders taking part in a 54-mile challenge that will boost the funds of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

The Coast to Coast event on Sunday (May 20) will take the cyclists from Watchet to Bridport in Dorset.

It will be the second ride of its kind, with last year's raising £33,000 for the charity.

William Wake from Minehead Cycling Club is among those taking part.

"Minehead's cyclists enjoy the best scenery in England and we are very aware of how remote and rural West Somerset is and what a vital service the air ambulance provides," he said.

Mr Wake said he had personal experience of the difference an air ambulance can make, having been flown to hospital following a serious accident some years ago.

"My trip to hospital took just a few minutes rather than the several painful hours that a land evacuation would have taken," he said.

"I think it's amazing that a charity is able to provide this service and I am sure Free Press readers will want to support this great cause."

In addition to the fundraising of the individual riders taking part in the Coast to Coast event, the cycling club is also donating £150.

And Minehead Lions is also supporting the air ambulance with a £250 donation - half of the proceeds from its May collections at Minehead's Co-Op and Morrisons supermarkets.

Lions president Steve Wawman said: "West Somerset is a beautiful place to live but we are some distance from major hospitals.

"The air ambulance service has helped many local people get to hospital much faster than would otherwise be possible.

"By saving time, the air ambulance helps ensure a better outcome for the casualty and has undoubtedly saved lives.

"The Lions are proud to support this charity."

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance spokesman Nick Pearce said the service was an independent charity and cost more than £1.4 million a year to run.

"We are really grateful for the support of the people of West Somerset," he said.

"We hope they will cheer the riders on and anyone wanting to support the air ambulance can do so at http://www.dsairambulance.org.uk.&quot">www.dsairambulance.org.uk."

The ride starts from The Esplanade in Watchet at 11am.

Photo: Steve Guscott