Most cyclosportive organiser promise to offer something unique – but Wheels in Wheels have served up a treat for Pain on the Plain.

Following on from the first event last year, the 2011 ride, based from the Wiltshire town of Tidworth, will once again feature optional gravel sections – throwing in an extra obstacle seen normally on rides like the Hell of the North, Rapha’s homage to Paris-Roubaix – and a handful of normally-closed private military roads.

The gravel sections will be found on the ride’s two longer routes – 100km and 160km – with a shorter 50km distance also available.

Each route will be fully signposted, with feed stops, electronic timing and mechanical back-up en-route.

There will also be a short family ride on the Sunday morning, while the children will be kept entertained at the event village throughout the day, with displays and interactive activities organised by the Army.

New for 2011, a series of criterium races will be run on the Saturday evening on a specially designed circuit around Tedworth House in Tidworth. For more information see the British Cycling calendar.

All profits from the event go to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association and there is the opportunity to raise extra funds through sponsorship forms available online.

Pain on the Plain entry costs £27 – or just £17 for serving members of the Armed Forces.

Head to www.wheelsinwheels.com for more information and to enter.