CYCLISTS have the opportunity to take part in an organised ride that visits steam railways in the Thames Valley and beyond – beginning at Ruislip Lido.

You can choose from a 50km route, two 100km rides and a 200km option from 8am on Sunday, March 9, leaving from the Lido beach, where the Fat Controller will wave you off.

Riders choosing the longer rides will initially pass through wooded countryside to Quainton, then west along the Thames to Didcot.

After that, they navigate east, via Cholsey & Wallingford, to begin the assent towards the Chinnor & Princes Risborough railway, before returning to the capital, via Southall Rail Centre, and finishing at the Water’s Edge, Ruislip.

The route will be along country paths, where possible, and quieter B roads.

Highlights along the way will include views of Chequers, the Thames and the Chiltern hills.

Any type of bike can be used. The main concern is to ensure it is mechanically reliable and comfortable for an all-day outing. The event may start in daylight hours but finishes late, so you may well need lights.

Visit www.steamride.co.uk, where you can sign up and receive a detailed route sheet.