A women-only cycle ride through the New Forest is being held later this year.

Macmillan Cycletta, the UKs leading series of women only bike rides, is on track to make a significant contribution to British Cycling’s plans to get a million women cycling by 2020.

The New Forest event, now open for entries, takes place on Sunday September 20 at Beaulieu Palace.

Last year, more women than ever before took to two wheels to participate in the cycling series which was launched to encourage women of all ages and abilities to get on their bike.

Almost 5,000 women across the UK took part in Macmillan Cycletta last year. Macmillan Cycletta New Forest is open to women of all ages and abilities and includes different distances ranging from 20km to 150km.

For the younger cycling enthusiasts, all events in the Macmillan Cycletta series include a Scootathlon taking place on the same day. The Scootathlon is a mini fun triathlon for children between the ages of 4 and 8 where they scoot, bike and run.

Gillian Daly, Senior PR Manager at Macmillan Cycletta, said: “The New Forest event is always fantastic, with more and more ladies signing up to take part each year.

“There are many reasons why women should get out on their bikes - whether it’s to keep fit, socialise or to raise money for a good cause like Macmillan Cancer Support.

“Some cycling events can feel intimidating, particularly if you haven’t been on a bike for years and that’s exactly what Macmillan Cycletta aims to change.”

To book your place, visit www.cycletta.co.uk.