The quirkily named Northampton Organisation for Beer, Bikes and Steam, or NOBBS, place rather more sway on the pints than the pedals, but that won't stop them giving their all for the event which raises money for The Friends of Cynthia Spencer Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support in the county.
Chris 'Chopper Speedwobble' Dyer is one of those who'll be jumping into the saddle for the ride which is again taking place at Althorp in September; "The group started ten years ago when a bunch of friends thought it might be fun to cycle to local steam rallies, with the reward for our efforts of a couple of cold beverages when we got there" explained Chris.
"There are now more than thirty of us so over the last decade we've clocked up quite a few miles in search of a good pub and we've even done cycling trips in France, Italy and Poland.
But we love taking part in this fantastic event on our doorstep as these are two great causes and of course, this year, we're both celebrating our tenth anniversaries," he added.
The group prides itself on its wide variety of aged wheels, its lack of technical biking knowhow and its reputation for avoiding professional cycling gear, so with a fancy dress prize up for grabs, what might the NOBBS be donning this year?
"We've done rides entirely in tweed before and even dressed as orange ghosts but I'm not sure what the plans are this time," said Chris. "Thankfully, we've got a few months yet to decide but I can guarantee that the decision will be made over a few swift halves!"
One of those looking forward to seeing the NOBBS' rig-out on the day is Sue Bownass from the hospice; "It's great to be having the group's support again and it just shows that, while there are plenty of those who'll turn up in lycra and take the riding very seriously, it's also a great fun day out for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
"We'd therefore urge anyone who wants to be part of this wonderful event to join us and help to support the life-changing work of our two invaluable charities," she added.
This year's ride, the tenth anniversary of the event, is taking place at Althorp on Sunday, September 22nd, by kind permission of The Earl and Countess Spencer, and will again offer riders the chance to enjoy the west Northamptonshire countryside on one of its 5, 25 or 50 mile routes. Entry is £15 for adults, £7.50 for children and £35 for families.
For details of the routes, to download entry and sponsorship forms or to enter online, please visit www.cycle4cynthia.com
Alternatively to enter a business team, to pledge corporate sponsorship or your support as a volunteer on the day, please call Sue Bownass at the Friends of Cynthia Spencer Hospice on 01604 678088.
