LITTLE more than a third of people who took part in last year’s Tour de Tendring were from the district, it has been revealed.

Of the 1,031 cyclists who set off on 20-mile or 50-mile round trips from Dovercourt Swimming Pool, only about 300 were from Tendring.

It has prompted organisers of the family cycling event to urge residents to sign up this year.

Stephen Mayzes, councillor responsible for leisure at Tendring Council, said: “It is not a race and is to be enjoyed by all the family. Last year almost 70 per cent of participants were from outside the district and while that is great for tourism we would love to see more of our local residents saddle up.”

Chris Holmes, facilities and sports development manager, said: “We are looking to get local schools and the whole local community involved more than ever this year.”

The tour will start and finish at the swimming pool in Low Road on Sunday, May 22.

There will be an opportunity for local groups and organisations, sports clubs and charities to be represented at the site and promote their activities.

People will be able to take part in Come and Try sessions as well as a cycling safety course.

Participants in the tour are encouraged to raise money for charities of their choice.

Entry forms will be available at Tendring Council offices, leisure centres, libraries and village halls.

Fees are £13 for adults, £8 for under-14s and £12 per person for teams of six or more.

For more information on how to sign up for the Tour de Tendring, go to www.bike-events.com. Organisations should contact Lynn Lee on 01255 686651.