The Tour De France might start today but there’s a more important race taking place.

Shipston Rotary Club’s Tour d’Ilmington returns this Sunday, with  cyclists of all abilities encouraged to get involved.

The event is being organised in partnership with Shipston Home Nursing, one of the charities set to benefit from the day’s proceeds.

Rotarian and tour veteran Bob Armstrong said: “This is a unique event, which by having three different routes, caters for riders of all ages and levels of skill and experience. The routes are through glorious Warwickshire and Cotswold countryside.

“It is not competitive in as much as riders are not timed and it is essentially a fun event. This provides riders with the opportunity to support local Rotary charities and good causes or those of their own choosing.”

He added: “Shipston Home Nursing is a highly respected charity providing much needed end of life care in people’s own homes.

“They have become under increasing pressure as a result of Covid.”

“Our partnership also includes supporting each other’s fundraising events like Rotary’s Tour and SHN’s 10k Run.”

Cotswold Journal: Each race begins and ends at Newbold on Stour Village HallEach race begins and ends at Newbold on Stour Village Hall

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Fundraisers will be able to take part in either a 10-mile, 30-mile or 100km course on Sunday each of which begins and ends at Newbold on Stour Village Hall.

The Rotary Club is hoping it can raise even more than £5,000 achieved last year, following a year off due to Covid.

The 10-mile gentle Steve Edwards Family Fun Ride starts at 10am and visits Ilmington, where there is a refreshments station at the halfway point, before returning to Newbold.

The more challenging David Lockwood Hilly Ride also starts at 10am and follows a 30-mile route around Ilmington and features over 2,500 ft of hard climbing.

For the longer-distance riders, there is the 100k Classic Ride which begins at 8:30am and ventures through Warwickshire and the Vale of Evesham countryside before returning back to Newbold.

Registration costs between £18-£22 for adults and £6-£8 for juniors (aged 12-16) and can be completed on the day or online at www.shipstonrotary.co.uk/tour.