FORMER Wales back row forward Alix Popham has given his backing to the ‘stunning’ Tour de Gwent 2016.

Brive, Llanelli Scarlets and Newport player Alix, aged 37, capped 33 times for Wales, took up cycling after retiring from the sport due to injury.

Alix, from Rhiwderin, helped launch the 2016 riders’ jersey along with lead sponsor Rhys Morton of Newport-based Whitehead Building Services.

Alix is ambassador for the Tour de Gwent event and will ride in the 77 mile race.

The event, in aid of St David’s Hospice Care and offering three circular routes, is to be staged on Sunday, 17th April.

Alix said: “The Tour de Gwent is a truly stunning event which goes through some of the most spectacular parts of the country.

“It is challenging, with great climbs which tests some of the most experienced of riders but also offers a great deal for families and less experienced cyclists to enjoy.

“What I believe makes this event in particular so special is the attention to detail, how the ride is so well managed and the provision of things like feeding stations, the way markers and support vehicles, along the route.

“It’s a phenomenal event which helps generate much needed funds for St David’s Hospice Care with £40,000 being raised last year.”

Keen cyclist Rhys Morton, said: “We’re thrilled to have been able to sign someone of Alix’s stature as ambassador for the Tour de Gwent.

“The event, which has a new route for 2016, is an exciting challenge which picks its way through some of the most remarkable and scenic countryside in Wales.

“Whitehead has had a long association with St David’s Hospice Care which we are delighted to continue.

“A number of our 150 staff will be involved in the Tour de Gwent on the day from riding the route to helping out as marshalls.”

The Tour de Gwent attracted 500 cyclists last year and organisers are hoping to top that total in 2016.

The Tour de Gwent starts and finishes at Caerleon Cricket Pavilion.

It sees riders tackle one of three routes, either 77, 37.5 or 20.5 miles on roads and lanes in Newport, Torfaen and mostly in Monmouthshire.

The longest route takes riders through New Inn, Usk, up to Llantilio Crosenny across to Rockfield and then down through Tintern, Trellech and on the A449 back to Caerleon.

The shortest route goes from Caerleon to Llanbadoc and back. while the middle route winds through Llanhennock, New Inn, Glascoed, Usk, Raglan and then back to Caerleon.

The challenge is to complete your chosen course within 10 hours and arrive back at the finish village at Caerleon Cricket Pavilion in time to enjoy the BBQ, refreshments, entertainment and stalls.

The minimum age for entrants is 16-years-old and registration is open now. The entry fee is £50 which includes an exclusive event cycling ‘sport cut’ jersey, route maps, water and feeding stations and a finish BBQ.

To register visit www.tourdegwent.org or call 01633 851051.