Entries have now opened for the inaugural Gran Fondo Eddy Merckx to be held on Sunday July 31 – a chance to ride with The Cannibal himself. 

Limited to 1,000 riders, the event is based at Cricket St. Thomas Hotel, near Chard, Somerset, with 60 and 100-mile routes of on offer. Merckx will attend the event and intends to ride the full Gran Fondo distance.

The sportive is supported by i-ride.co.uk and there will be a full event village with trade displays of the latest gear and demo bikes to take out – Eddy Merckx Bikes, Campagnolo, Fulcrum and Continental have already confirmed.

Meanwhile, a pasta party will take place on the Saturday night and ZipVit will fuel the three feed stations, while Naqi skin care will provide free massages for tired limbs at the finish. Riders will also receive a free goody bag, while mechanic support will be on hand.

Entry costs £39 through www.granfondoeddymerckx.co.uk