Monmouth MP David Davies has got on his bike and is training to compete in the Tour de Gwent 2017.
The super fit father-of-three is gearing up to take part in his first charity cycling event.
Organised in support of St David's Hospice Care, the 77-mile Tour de Gwent Sportif has grown in stature over the years and raised many thousands of pounds for the charity.
The event, which is sponsored by Newport-based Whitehead Building Services, will be staged on Sunday 9 April.
Mr Davies said: “I haven’t done any specific training so far but I do run, swim or weight train every day.
"I have completed numerous charity fun runs but never a charity bike ride and I am really looking forward to the new challenge.
“I cycle a lot in London and do a bit of mountain biking but don’t do much long distance road biking. I used to do a lot of surfing and boxing but I’m getting a bit old for that now!
“St David’s Hospice Care makes a real difference to patients and their families in this area during the most difficult times of their lives. I have nothing but praise for this fantastic charity."
The Tour de Gwent Sportive is split into five routes this year: The 77 mile Platinum, the 58 mile Gold, the 52 mile silver, the 37 mile bronze and the 20 mile Midi. Each of the circular routes, which wind around roads and lanes in Newport, Torfaen and mostly in Monmouthshire, starts and finishes at Caerleon Cricket Pavilion.
Franca Nigro of St David’s Hospice Care said: “We’re thrilled David Davies is taking on the Tour de Gwent challenge this year.
"We are hopeful many others will now follow David’s lead and saddle up in support of St David’s Hospice Care to help us continue the vital work we carry out throughout our community 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, 365 days a year.”
The challenge is to complete your chosen course within three to 10 hours and arrive back at the finish village at Caerleon Cricket Pavilion in time to enjoy the BBQ, refreshments, live music, entertainment and stalls.
The minimum age for entrants is 16-years, although it is 14 for the midi event. Registration is now open. The entry fee is £50 which includes an exclusive event cycling ‘sport cut’ jersey, route maps, water and feeding stations and a finish BBQ.
To register and get more details of the route visit www.tourdegwent.org or call 01633 851051.