CHESTER Paralympian Rik Waddon is calling on keen cyclists to enjoy a unique challenge which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The annual Liverpool Chester Liverpool bike ride takes competitors four miles under the Mersey, through the Queensway (Birkenhead) Tunnel, silent and traffic free.

Thousands of cyclists are expected to take part in the bike ride, which takes place on Sunday, July 7.

This year is the 20th anniversary of this popular event.

Rik Waddon, silver medallist at London 2012 Paralympics, is on board again to promote and take part in the event and is excited about the inaugural family ride under the Mersey.

Featuring seven routes – the new six mile Tunnel Challenge family ride, and a 50-mile Chester Challenge along with the other five popular routes – it is the only event in the UK to feature cycling four miles under a river.

Rik Waddon said: “I’m very much looking forward to taking part again in the bike ride, particularly as it’s the 20th anniversary celebration.

“The atmosphere on the day among the participants is always great, and will be even more so this year.

“I’m currently training hard for Rio 2016, but make time in my calendar to support this event as it’s such a celebration of cycling and raises money for a very worthwhile charity.”

Claire House provides valuable respite care for children up to the age of 23 and their families in Merseyside, Cheshire, West Lancashire and Isle of Man.

Kirsty Simpson, event manager of Claire House, said: “This is a magnificent event and we hope that many participants will choose to raise money through sponsorship for Claire House.”

To find out more and register to take part, visit www.liverpoolchesterliverpool.co.uk.