A CHARITY cycle event designed as a substitute for the popular Tour de Tendring is taking place on Sunday.

Two routes will be available for those who want to use their pedal power to boost the coffers of Harwich RNLI.

The first and more challenging 28-mile route begins at the lifeboat station on Harwich quay and goes to Manningtree and Shotley.

A boat to ferry those with tired legs back across the water to Harwich quay will be running on the day.

A smaller five-mile route, designed for families, leaves the quay and goes to Tollgate and back.

The Tour de Tendring, which used to raise money for the RNLI, was not held this year because of a drop in the number of people taking part.

Organisers Tendring Council said the event would return next year.

Donations for the RNLI can be given at the lifeboat station.