A BOURNEMOUTH couple are getting on their bikes to support a cause close to their hearts this summer.

Louis Reeves and his partner Gemma Russell will be taking part in this year’s Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride as a tribute to family members they have lost to the disease.

Gemma lost her mum to cancer 18 months ago and Louis lost his uncle in November.

The couple were at Castlepoint on Saturday as the annual appeal for cyclists got officially underway at the shopping centre.

Louis, who is business development manager for Bournemouth-based digital marketing agency Adido, said: “I have been pleased to be able help the Dorset Bike Ride by improving their events website this year and now we are looking forward to getting on our bikes and taking a more active part in the fund raising.

“We have set up a JustGiving page and are hoping to raise more than £500 for Macmillan.

“We have been extremely grateful for the support our families have received from Macmillan and we hope that we can help in raising funds to support other families who need it.”

Cyclists from across the area came along and signed up for the annual charity cycle ride, which takes place on Sunday July 7.

This year it celebrates 25 years of cycling to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Ride organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls, said: “There is something for all cycling abilities – not just 25 miles but 10, 38, 48, 60 and the challenging 100 miles.”

Louis and Gemma have set-up a Just Giving page for donations: justgiving.com/louandgembike Go to macmillanbikeride.co.uk or contact Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride, PO Box 1432 Broadstone, BH18 9YE or phone 01202 601705 for entry forms.