If it's been a while since you got on your bike, then this is the ideal opportunity to dust off the cobwebs and oil your chain. Real Essex has devised a set of nine cycle routes which will get you out into the Essex countryside. The circular rides are approximately 5 to 20 miles long - ideal for families or new cyclists. The maps come in pack with information on what to see and do in the area. The complete pack costs £5.50 (includes p&p), to get a pack call 0845 600 7373.  | | Steve & Angela on a bicycle made for two |
BBC Essex presenters Steve Scruton and Angela Lodge are swapping their walking boots for cycle clips on the Saturday, 5, May for the launch of Cycle Essex. The pair walked the 81-mile Essex Way footpath last year raising over £10,000 for the Essex Air Ambulance. They'll be joining hundreds of riders cycling just under 15 miles through the heart of the beautiful Essex countryside, collecting sponsorship for the Helen Rollason Heal Cancer Charity. "I can't wait to get back on my bike," said Steve, "it's years since I've cycled any kind of distance". Angela is a little more prepared: "I'm going to ride my bike to BBC Essex at least twice a week from now to get in shape". However, she's drawn the line at sharing a bicycle made for two! "Steve thought we could do the route on a tandem, but there's no way I'd trust him with the brakes or handle bars!" Ian Wyatt's Saturday morning programme will be coming live from the Discovery Centre and will launch the intrepid duo on their way - and hopefully welcome them back before the show goes off-air! To take part in the Cycle Essex event on Saturday, 5, May you'll need to register by the Friday, 20, April directly with Helen Rollason Heal Cancer Charity on tel 01245 516547. Registration costs £3.00 per person or £5.00 for a family of four. | 
