Thanet’s Viking Bike Ride around the island is set to take place on Sunday October 12 in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

Suitable for the whole family, the ride is being backed by Thanet Council’s sport development team and a senior councillor.

Entrants can choose to ride parts of the Viking Coastal Trail or the whole of the 32-mile route. There will be starting points at Joss Bay, the viking ship at Cliffsend or Reculver. For anyone choosing to ride part of the route, they will cycle six miles from the viking ship to Joss Bay, while it is 15 miles from Reculver to the ship. The route between Joss Bay and Reculver is recommended as the family route and is 11 miles long.

Cllr Shirley Tomlinson, cabinet member for commercial and environmental services, is taking part and will be cycling all 32 miles of the trail. She’s been spurred on to get involved after her husband Mick (pictured) had a cardiac arrest in February.

She said: “Many people will remember what we went through earlier this year, when I resuscitated Mick after his cardiac arrest, with the help of friends. While he is initially still here because of those actions, I know that without the excellent care from the paramedics, A&E, intensive care and the coronary care unit, he wouldn’t be here today and many lives would be very different.

“Mick and I both know how lucky he was and we’re exceptionally grateful for all the help and support we’ve both received. Cycling 32 miles is certainly going to be a challenge, but it’s something I’m determined to do. It’s a great cause which is very dear to both myself and Mick.”

Entry costs £10 for adults if they pre-register and £15 for entry on the day, while the fee for under-16s is £5 regardless of when the entry is made.

To enter either of the bike rides, visit www.bhf.org.uk/vikingbikeride or call 0808 100 2109