The Children’s Centre has announced the main sponsor for its forthcoming London to Nice cycle challenge.

Online gaming company Playtech’s head of regulatory affairs and compliance, Ian Ince, said: ’We are delighted to support this massive cycling challenge of just under 1,000 miles!

’We are also very proud to be raising valuable funds for an independent local Manx charity.

’We know this charity makes a huge difference on the island and are delighted to be involved in supporting them in this way. We wish all of the participants every success in their journey.’

Children’s Centre event organiser Lisa Motley and cycle participant in the challenge said: ’Our annual cycling challenge is always a great event. Once again we are delighted that 17 cyclists will be taking part in this endurance event.

’We are grateful to Playtech as their support will ensure that all of the funds raised by our amazing cyclists will go direct to our charitable services.

’In addition I would like to take this opportunity to thank two other sponsors KPMG for sponsoring the kit along with the Steam Packet for their continued support with off island travel.’

The cyclists will set off from London on Saturday, April 28, and will arrive in Nice 11 days later on Tuesday. May 8. They will have ridden almost 1,000 miles and climbed 60,000ft including Mont Ventoux.