I am writing to ask your readers to join the Diabetes UK team at the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey100 challenge on Sunday, August 10.

We are looking for cyclists who already have a place in the event but haven’t picked a charity to fundraise for.

Across Sussex there are 75,600 people diagnosed with diabetes, as well as around 26,400 who have Type 2 diabetes but don’t know it.

Diabetes can lead to devastating complications such as blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, stroke and amputation.

By joining the Diabetes UK team, cyclists will be raising money to provide support to local people with diabetes as well as increasing awareness for those undiagnosed.

We campaign for better care for people with diabetes, as well as funding life-changing research into care, treatment and prevention.

It is now in its second year and is Britain’s biggest cycle challenge, with almost 20,000 people taking part. The course passes through some of the capital’s most iconic sights including Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and The Mall as well as up the notoriously tough Box Hill.

Diabetes UK will have cheer points at mile 25 and 98 for supporters to cheer on cyclists.

Everyone who joins the team receives a cycling jersey with personalised lettering, crazy hair, fundraising toolkit, online support, training tips and post event cool down party complete with massage therapists.

If you would like to ride for us contact the events fundraising team on 0207 424 1867 or email events.fundraising@diabetes.org.uk.

Nicola Verra,

Fundraising Manager Diabetes UK South East.