A Dorset boat builder will once again sponsor the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride as the charity hopes to add to the £1.5 million raised over the years.

Sunseeker International has announced its continuing support for the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride.

The world-renowned boat builders, which has factories in Poole and Portland, will sponsor the event for the fourteenth consecutive year in 2019. During that time Sunseeker has helped raise more than £1 million.

More than 18,500 people have taken part in the annual fundraising event since it began and more than £1.5 million has been raised in that time.

Last year the annual bike ride, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018, saw Macmillan raise another £62,507 and attracted more than 600 cyclists to the event.

Peter Smith-Nicholls founded the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride in 1989 and has run the event for the past 30 years, supported by a loyal band of volunteers and supporters.

Commenting on Sunseeker International’s support, Bryan Jones, Sunseeker Marketing Manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted to support Macmillan, Peter and his amazing team of supporters for a fourteenth year.

“They work tirelessly to deliver this incredible fundraising initiative and if you can support them by entering the Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride or by sponsoring a rider, please do so.

“Every penny raised by entrants goes directly to the charity and your participation will make a real difference to people’s lives in Dorset.”

Mr Smith-Nicholls said: “We are very grateful to Sunseeker for continuing its lead sponsorship in 2019; it is fantastic to be supported by a world-class brand based here in Dorset.

“Thanks to Sunseeker’s involvement, all the money we raise can go to where it is needed. We look forward to seeing lots of local people and Sunseeker employees take part in the ride and raise funds to support people living with cancer in the local area.”

This year’s event, which takes place on Sunday 7th July, will offer four circular rides of distances including, 38, 48, 63 and the challenging 100 miles.

Cyclists can now enter online and order their 2019 cycling jersey at www.macmillanbikeride.co.uk or call 01202 601705 for entry forms.

From its manufacturing base in Dorset on the South coast of England, Sunseeker employs approximately 2,600 people and produces around 150 boats every year ranging from 50-161 feet in length.