“I've cycled across Europe and to Istanbul- now I’m on a mission to show people how much fun cycling is.”

That's the message from John Surowiec who took up cycling ‘seriously’ when he retired ten years ago.

Since then he has cycled 2,000 miles to Poland, completely circumnavigated Europe and last year cycled to Istanbul.

In less than a month the 65-year-old adventurer will start on a new journey, cycling across five countries and taking in five capital cities across Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.

But that’s not before he helps to inspire the new generation of cyclists with a cycle around Dorset inspired by the two Thomas Hardy’s. The author Thomas Hardy was a keen cyclist and Admiral Hardy, Nelson's flag captain, lived in Portesham.

Mr Surowiec together with the CTC West Dorset group and Cycling UK, has organised the Two Hardy’s Bike Ride on Monday, May 1.

Starting at 10am at Top O’ Town car park and take in a 20-25 mile route, stopping for lunch in Portesham. The route will pass (Admiral) Hardy’s Monument and Thomas Hardy’s Cottage. There will be brief talks about both Hardys at lunch time so riders can learn more about these famous Dorset men. There will be a quiz with prizes at the end.

Mr Surowiec said the idea was to inspire families to get out and explore Dorset.

He said: “People are often frightened of cycling. They think the roads are unsafe. Dorset has lots of very good cycling countryside with some quiet roads.”

He added the aim of the ride was to show families and riders that within reach of Dorchester there were some great rides of quiet roads and show them some quieter ways to get in and out of the town.

He said: “They can get out, get some good exercise and see some good sights and not be scared by the traffic.”

Mr Surowiec, from Portesham, said his favourite cycle rides, aside from around Dorset, were the north west coast of Corsica and around Montenegro.

The Two Hardys cycle event costs £5 per adult and £15 per family – entrance to National Trust properties en route will be in addition to this charge.

For more information ring 01305 871649 or email john.surowiec1@btinternet.com.