Folding bike heroes wanted for London to Paris ride

Folding bikes – once the accessory of choice for the multi-modal commuter - have evolved to such an extent they are now capable of providing the comfort necessary for much longer rides.

To celebrate the progress of the ultimate form of portable transport, entries are now being invited for the inaugural London to Paris Folding Bike Challenge.

Entrants must leave their multi-sprocketed mountain machines at home and instead carry their fold-up versions to the starting line. Whether you've got a Dahon, Brompton, Mezzo, Dawes, Birdy, Bike Friday, Airnimal, Raleigh, or Pashley-Moulton; as long as it folds, you're in.

Places are limited to around 100 so sign up quickly for a chance to enjoy this slower-paced tour from London to the foot of the Eiffel Tower, with four days of pedal-pushing comradeship, fine French food and a glass or two of bubbly at the finish.

Be clear, the Tour de France it is not. Gruelling hill ascents have been hacked out of the route in favour of softer sight-seeing routes and plentiful stop-offs.

Organised by Action Challenge the event is being held in aid of The British Heart Foundation and Scope.

Entries cost £99. The ride goes from London to Portsmouth with an overnight ferry journey to Caen, and a ride to Paris via the beautiful Normandy countryside. A full support team will be provided as will food and accommodation, a celebratory prize-giving party in paris and the Eurostar ride back to London.

For more information call Kate on 0207 3541450 or visit the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=76513279391