NOW autumn and winter are fast creeping up on us you may think cycling opportunities are on the wane.

But a big ride with a big heart has been organised for all abilities this weekend.

The Guardian’s Pedal Power campaign is all about encouraging readers to ride a bike, and highlighting opportunities is a big part of that.

And with this event, even those who are interested in cycling but who may not yet have the courage to jump on a bike can meet riders over lunch for a chat and chance to find out more.

CYCLISTS of all ages and abilities are invited to join in the fifth annual charity ride to a Cheshire ice cream farm on Sunday.

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Run has taken place ever since Alan Silver, Weaver Valley Cycling Club’s (WVCC) runs captain, was collared by a neighbour while out cycling.

This neighbour happens to be Jean Fairfield, chairman of the Mid Cheshire branch of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

“Jean lives just up the road from myself so that's how it all started,” he said.

“Five years ago she saw me regularly pass her house on the bike in Weaver Valley kit until one day she asked if the club would arrange a charity ride on their behalf – and the rest is history.”

Jean has two guide dogs, Kerry, who is retired, and youngster Phoenix, who is Jean’s trained dog.

Alan said: “Both Jean and her husband Robert have been Guide Dogs for the Blind Association members for many years and are always involved with events around the north west.

“The effort they put into this event must be very rewarding and with the WVCC involvement we can see it is much appreciated.”

Last year’s run raised £830 for the charity and more than 40 riders are expected to join in Sunday’s cycle.

All abilities are welcome to join WVCC’s 45-mile run to Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, in Tattenhall, which will wend its way through Crowton, Delamere, Cotebrook and over to Waverton.

Cyclists should meet at Hartford Social Club, in Bradburns Lane, at 9.30am.

A women-only Breeze ride and a mixed Sky Ride buddy ride, which includes men, will also run alongside the event, although these rides will take a more direct route there and back, with a maximum distance of 30 miles.

All riders will meet for lunch at the ice cream farm, where non-cycling family and friends can join them.

Those who donate what they would spend on lunch to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association will be given a free lunch donated by the farm.

For more information visit weavervalleycc.org.uk, breezebikerides.com or goskyride.com.