Forty Suffolk police officers and staff are gearing up for a 400 mile cycling challenge, billed as one of the toughest rides in the UK, to raise funds for the families of fallen colleagues.

The “Bobby on a Bike” team will be setting off from Aldeburgh on Sunday towards Borth on the Welsh coast for a four day cycling challenge in aid of the Care of Police Survivors charity.

Suffolk Constabulary dog handler, Pc Neil Smith, who organises various charity cycle rides through the Bobby on a Bike scheme, said: “This is the eleventh Bobby on a Bike event in 12 years and in that time we’ve cycled the west coast of America and across the width of America. The annual May rides are an ideal chance for a larger group of people to really test themselves and raise money for charity in doing so.

“The ride finds some of the toughest hills and steepest descents during its four days and has now been billed as one of the toughest multi-day events out there.

“It really pushes those taking part, both physically and mentally, but with many coming back to ride again, it is testament to what a great event it has become.”

In 2013 it raised over £15,000 for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association. Donations can be made at www.bobbyonabike.com or by texting BOAB77 £5 to 70070. Each text will donate £5.