Punctures won’t hold back participants at next month’s KM Big Bike Ride thanks to a Sandwich-based cycle specialist.

A bicycle mechanic from Locks of Sandwich Cycles will help with any bike related issues at the popular annual event on Sunday, April 26. The business has also planned the two circular routes, which start from the BayPoint Club in Sandwich, and will assist with route signposting.

BayPoint is holding a free Green Travel Festival on the same day as the Big Bike Ride with stalls, food, drinks, live music, and activities for children.

Martin Hayes of Locks of Sandwich Cycles said: “We are delighted to support the KM Big Bike Ride and have also been involved with getting a number of cycle manufacturers to display their bikes at the Green Travel Festival.

"This is set to be one of the biggest cycling events in Kent and it’s great to be part of it.”

Participants can choose either a 100km route for keen cyclists or a 50km option both taking in stunning East Kent coastline and countryside.

Event organiser Julia Williamson of the KM Charity Team said: “Locks have devised two fantastic routes that will allow sportive riders and leisure cyclists to take up the challenge.

“Why not get on your bike and raise sponsorship for your favourite charity or good cause?”

The KM Big Bike Ride, supported by Vattenfall, follows the coastline from Dover to Herne Bay and takes in countryside through the Canterbury and Dover districts.

To book, visit www.kmbigbikeride.co.uk and use the code KMPRBB15 for a £5 booking discount. Riders must be aged 16 or over.