FULL details of the route for the Vélo South 100-mile closed-road cycling sportive have been released.

To celebrate this milestone, organisers are giving West Sussex residents a second chance to ride the inaugural Vélo South by offering them a guaranteed general entry place.

The event, which sold out of all its general entry places in just four days, is expected to raise millions for local and national charities.

The additional entries have been ring-fenced for local residents, allowing them a second chance to enter the Vélo South. To purchase one of these entries, West Sussex residents should email [email protected] with a proof of address.

Taking place on Sunday, September, 23 the first-ever Vélo South will take 15,000 riders of all abilities on a journey through the stunning West Sussex countryside, including the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park.

The route will showcase historic West Sussex towns and villages. Highlights include the Goodwood Motor Circuit, from where the cyclists will start and finish, plus Ducton Hill, with its views across the Sussex Weald, the towns of Petworth and Pulborough, and villages such as Ashington, Wiston and Partridge Green.

The Wey & Arun Canal, ‘London’s lost route to the sea’, will be another highlight, along with the panoramic hill-top views from Harting Down.

With around 1,700 metres of climbing, Vélo South is challenging, but the beauty of the route, plus support from local communities and camaraderie amongst the riders, should make it an unforgettable day of closed-road riding.

A detailed information letter will be distributed to all homes and businesses on the route over the next few weeks, enabling residents to learn more about the road closures.

Spectators lining the route might be able to spot rugby World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson, Olympic rowing champion Mark Hunter and Olympic 400m champion Sally Gunnell.

Thousands of other riders are fund-raising for a wide range of charities.

For more information about Vélo South, visit www.velosouth.com