FIVE members of a social club are saddling up to raise funds for Prospect Hospice on Sunday.

The five riders, joined by the 15-year-old son of one of the team, are all taking part in Prospect’s Big Bike Ride and have chosen the gruelling 40km off-road route.

The venture is one of the more energetic activities in the varied programme run by Swindon IVC, a local social club that gives singles and couples the chance to make friends while doing activities that range from sports and outdoor pursuits to meals out, pub and theatre visits and a book club.

Long-time member Richard Salt cycled from Lands End to John O’Groats two years ago and has gathered the team together. He said they chose the Big Bike Ride because it sounded fun, it’s local, and it’s for a local charity.

Swindon IVC chairman Zoe Brown said: “Swindon IVC is all about giving people the chance to do the things they enjoy, try out new activities, and make friends as they do it.

“If we can help others at the same time, that’s even better.”

Swindon IVC is a not-for-profit group run by and for its members and a member of an organisation with 46 clubs nationwide.

Anyone interested in joining should visit swindon.ivc.org, email membership@swindonivc.org.uk or call 07005 976439.