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After overindulging during the festive season and the excesses of New Year partying why not get your body and mind in shape by training for the one of the biggest cycling events of the year in support of the British Heart Foundation (BHF)?

The Bike Show Ride 2004 is taking place on Sunday 18 April from three starting points (Oxford, London and Birmingham) all culminating at The Bike Show in Birmingham. With three routes and a variety of distances, you can choose which one suits you best.

It is not a race, so you don't have to be incredibly fit or a cycling expert to take part. As long as you enjoy getting on your bike you can join thousands of others cycling to the heart of England. The event is not just open to individuals. You can also enter as a team, which is a great way to challenge each other, enjoy the ride with friends and colleagues, and raise even more money for the BHF.

"Last year's Ride raised over £146,500 to help fund our fight against heart disease. We're hoping to double this figure in 2004. Not only will you be helping others but you'll be setting yourselves a very worthwhile and healthy challenge," said Julie Sorrell, Head of National Events at the BHF.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the main cause of death in the UK, claiming more than 120,000 lives every year¹. Money raised by The Bike Show RIDE participants will help the BHF to save lives through research and education, and provide funds for nurses and equipment to improve the care and rehabilitation of people living with CHD.

Joining The Bike Show RIDE will also help improve your heart health as physical inactivity doubles the risk of developing CHD. Cycling is a great form of exercise as it accessible, convenient and cheap. It can also be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

"It doesn't matter what type of cycling you enjoy - it all keeps your heart in great health. Whatever your ability, start training now and rise to the challenge of The Bike Show RIDE 2004. Go on, get on your bike to raise money for the British Heart Foundation," said Jason Queally, Olympic Gold Medallist, Sydney 2000.

To find out more about the event or to register to take part, log on to www.thebikeshowride.co.uk or call 0 (calls charged at 75p per minute).

1 Coronary heart disease statistics, British Heart Foundation statistics database 2003