The Prostate Cancer Charity’s cycling initiative to get more bums on saddles with its three Tour Rides has received support from stars from the world of film, television and sport.

The Prostate Cancer Charity’s three Tour Rides, being staged as part of the Charity’s ‘Unite ByCycling’ initiative, will take place in the South West, Stoke-on-Trent and London in partnership with The Tour of Britain, which takes place in September.

Stage star du jour, Damien Lewis, Ben Richards, of ITV1’s, The Bill, as well as 2009 British Road Race Champion Kristian House, are all backing the Charity’s drive to dust off those bikes and ‘Unite ByCycling’ to help raise awareness and funds to fight prostate cancer, which kills one man every hour in the UK. All three were among celebrities who took part in the Charity’s inaugural Tour Rides in London or Stoke-on-Trent, last year.

Lewis, who often cycles in London when he is not filming in LA, said: “I live in North London and I can get to Soho on bike routes in 15 minutes and I love it. It’s a fantastic way to get about. We also ride a lot together as a family. I love having my son and my daughter on the back of my bike.

“Cycling through London with all the roads closed and seeing all the sights was too good to resist. It was fabulous – feeling like a pro for a second. Anyone taking on this challenge in 2010 will also be cycling to show their support for a great cause. I feel passionate about supporting The Prostate Cancer Charity in improving the lives of the 35,000 men, and their families, who are affected by the disease every year.”

British Road Race Champion Kristian House, took part in the Stoke-on-Trent leg of The Tour of Britain last year, and is backing the event. He said: “The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Rides are great fun. Last year in Stoke was a great day out. Anything that gets people on bikes is a good thing and this is a fantastic event. Obviously, the cause, fighting prostate cancer, is a very important one and I will do anything to support that if I can.”

Riders will be given the unique opportunity to follow in the tracks of the pro riders and take on one of three legs of The Tour of Britain, Britain’s premier cycling road race. People can choose from three distances, whether they wish to measure themselves against the pros and take on the full route, a challenge ride or family event.

Claire Walsh, Head of Community Fundraising at The Prostate Cancer Charity, said: “The survey has shown us that a large number of people across the UK have definite resolve to get fit and buy a bike, but then something stops them from actually blazing a trail and getting out there. The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Rides are the perfect opportunity to oil the wheels and summon up the pedal power to take on a challenge.

“Whether you are a keen sportive rider or have not ridden a bike for years – there is a challenge to suit everyone. Every participant will be raising valuable funds for The Prostate Cancer Charity, to help improve the experience of the 215,000 men living with prostate cancer in the UK. Our message is clear, ‘Unite ByCycling’ and help us to raise funds and awareness. We are delighted to have so much support from Damien, Ben and Kristian.”

The Tour Rides

• In a brand new event for 2010, cyclists will be able to tackle a tough route which traverses the scenic South West, travelling 168km from Minehead to the South Devon coast or covering part of the route over distances of 75km and 15km, on Sunday 5 September.

• Stoke-on-Trent, which saw 1,300 riders participate in the inaugural Tour Ride last year, will again play host to cyclists, offering a 145km route which starts and finishes in Stoke-on-Trent in the City’s centenary year, as well as 70km and 20km events, on Sunday 26 September.

• There will also be an event on the London stage of The Tour of Britain, which will take cyclists on a route past some of the most iconic landmarks in the capital, on Saturday 18 September, prior to the final stage of The Tour of Britain.

To find out more and sign up to one of The Prostate Cancer Charity’s Tour Rides, visit www.tourride.co.uk.