A LESS frantic bike ride will be setting off from York next month as a cycling group for women get in the saddle.

York Bike Belles, a new cycling community, is determined to take life more slowly after the excitement of the Tour de France by embarking on a ride from Knavesmire to Naburn.

The Slow Tour of Yorkshire’s six-mile cycle is in aid of St Leonard’s Hospice, and sets off at noon on Sunday, August 31.

It comes as part of the Hospice’s It’s a Knockout challenge on the Knavesmire, and follows part of Sustrans’ National Cycle Network from York to Selby route.

The group, which was set up in April this year, is encouraging others to take part by donating £5 to help combat life-threatening illnesses.

Sheridan Piggott, Sustrans Project co-ordinator for York Bike Belles said: “We’ve chosen to support St Leonard’s Hospice because it’s a well-known and important local charity, which does great work for local people.

Sarah Atkinson, community fundraiser at St Leonard’s Hospice added: “We are really grateful to the York Bike Belles and their supporters for undertaking this ride for us — and for dressing as their bikes; we can’t wait to see them all!”

To sign up visit www.itravelyork.info/cycling/york-bike-belles-yorks-new-cycling-community-for-women