Local cyclists are being invited to take part in a midnight cycle from London to Brighton to raise funds for The Martlets Hospice.

Cyclists will leave Hyde Park Corner together at midnight on March 26, cycle under a full moon and reach Ditchling Beacon in time to see the sun rise.

From the Beacon the group will cycle downhill to Brighton seafront where riders will receive a hot breakfast.

Registration is free for this event, but cyclists are asked to raise as much sponsorship as possible for the Hove-based hospice.

The event is being organised in conjunction with Cheam and Morden Cyclists' Touring Club (CTC) and there are 50 places.

Robert Griffiths, fundraising director at the hospice, who will be taking part in the ride, said: "This midnight ride is a completely new event for us, there's something really adventurous about riding through the night.

"I'm looking forward to it, as long as my knees hold out!

"On a more serious note, this ride is a chance for cyclists to raise vital money for the hospice."

Simon Legg, from Cheam and Morden CTC, said: "We're one of the oldest clubs in London, and part of the biggest cycling organisation in Britain.

"We've been running rides for decades; this one is a little bit different. It's a lark, a spree, an adventure and a romance. It's a story you can dine out on for months!"

Organisers said the event was a group ride and was suitable for all riders.

Riders will be accompanied by experienced mechanics who will attend to any punctures and any other mechanical problems.

For more information or to sign up contact Martlets Fundraising on 01273 747455 or email antonia@themartletshospice.co.uk.

The Martlets Hospice helps people affected by terminal and life limiting illness living in and around Brighton and Hove. It provides end of life care services to adults with terminal disease, including cancer. Hospice facilities include an 18 bed inpatient unit, a day hospice and a care at home service.

The charity also offers practical and emotional support to the families and carers of patients including helping them through bereavement. For more information visit www.themartlets.org.uk.