THE Tour de Gwent charity bike ride has been launched by lead sponsor Whitehead Building Services at iconic Monmouthshire landmark Tintern Abbey.

Whitehead Managing Director Rhys Morton, who is also taking part, is backing the event once more in 2016 after sponsoring the first staging of the Tour de Gwent earlier this year.

The event is staged in support of St David’s Hospice Care which provides care, free, throughout Gwent and south Powys.

Keen cyclist Rhys, said: “The Tour de Gwent is an exciting challenge through some of the most wonderful 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 limited edition company emblazoned Tour de Gwent jersey has been spotted far and wide with Rhys even wearing his on a recent training trip to Mallorca.

Rhys said: “I‘ve seen the 2015 jersey being worn by cyclists all over the place. The unique jerseys are not only the real deal in terms of performance but they are also eye catching. I saw a number of riders in the Wales Velothon wearing the distinctive tops and have also seen them at events right across Wales and UK.

“There are still a few a few spaces available on the 2016 jersey so if you’re quick you may be able to bag a position.”

Kris Broome, director of fundraising and lottery, at St David’s Hospice Care, said: "We’re hoping for an increase in numbers this time. In 2016 we had 500 cyclists take part over the three routes in testing conditions. The fantastic response for the first year of the Tour de Gwent saw us raise more than £40,000. We’re hoping to hit the £50,000 mark in 2016."

Cyclists set off on the tour on Sunday 17th April. The event starts and finishes at Caerleon Cricket Pavillion and sees some 500 riders tackle one of three circular routes of 77, 37.5 and 20.5 mile courses winding around 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. Meanwhile the middle route takes cyclists to Llanhennock, New Inn, Glascoed, Usk, Raglan and then back to Caerleon.

The challenge is to complete a 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.