The Prince’s Trust youth charity is challenging an army of cyclists to get on their bikes in the largest mass participation event of its kind in the history of The Trust.

The Palace to Palace bike ride – from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle – aims to raise thousands of pounds to give hundreds of disadvantaged young people the skills and confidence to find jobs.

Last year, the event saw 2,000 people cycling almost 100,000 miles to help disadvantaged young people with The Prince’s Trust, with tickets selling out in just eight weeks. Palace to Palace has raised £200,000 over the past two years.

Participants will take an attractive 45-mile route along the River Thames and through three royal parks: Richmond Park, Bushy Park and Windsor Great Park. They will be pampered with a range of treats at the finish, before relaxing with family and friends in the stunning grounds of Windsor Castle. A specially arranged coach will be offered to take cyclists and their bikes back to London.

Julian Barrell from The Prince’s Trust says: “Palace to Palace has been hugely successful over the past two years – and we’re determined to make this year the best one yet. With the public’s support, the event will play its part in helping to raise the one million pounds every week we need to continue our work.”

The event takes place on 7 September. Participants can sign up now at www.princes-trust.org.uk/palace.

Cyclists will need to pay a non-refundable £30 registration fee and aim to raise at least £45 sponsorship money – that’s just £1 a mile.

The Prince’s Trust has helped more than 575,000 young people since 1976 and supports 100 more each working day. It gives practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. It works with 14- to 30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law.