A HOMELESS charity is asking cyclists to join together to “cycle round the world”.

Brighton Housing Trust (BHT) is working with environmental group The Living Coast on The Greater Brighton Cycle Challenge.

The event will raise money for the homeless and highlight the city’s world-class environment.

People of all ages and abilities are invited to take part.

They will gather at the velodrome in Brighton’s Preston Park and collectively aim to cycle 40,075km, the distance around the globe, in 12 hours.

They can also choose to cycle 30 or 58 miles along the South Downs.

Andy Winter, chief executive of BHT, said: “We are extremely excited about running an even bigger and more exciting event this year.

“We didn’t quite clock up the mileage around the world last year, but we were overwhelmed by the support of over 350 people on the day.

“They raised over £15,000 to help people to move away from the streets and live independent and healthy lives.

“This year promises to be even better.”

Rich Howorth, biosphere programme manager for The Living Coast, said: “We aim to connect people and nature to pioneer a positive future for both as an international demonstration area for sustainable living.

“We are linking our local social and environmental objectives while raising money for great causes.

“We want the community to help sustain The Living Coast that brings together the towns, Downs and coast of this Unesco-designated World Biosphere Region within the greater Brighton area.”

The cycle challenge takes place on July 1, starting at 7am. Head to bht.org.uk to register.