Organised by Pennine Events, the LCL Bike Ride was scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 5. Now they hope to be able to stage the event later in the year

This year’s Liverpool-Chester-Liverpool Bike Ride has been postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak – the first time in its 27-year history.

Organised by Pennine Events, the LCL Bike Ride was scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 5. Now they hope to be able to stage the event, which offers participants the opportunity to ride through the Mersey Tunnel, will now take place on Sunday, September 27.

This year it is celebrating a 10-year partnership with Claire House Hospice with almost £300,000 much needed funds raised to support the facility. Cyclists are now being urged to join the #27ways challenge and find different ways of preparing for the September event while observing the social distancing rules.

Mark Sandamas, owner of Pennine Events, said: “We have been tracking the development of the situation closely and following the advice of Public Health England and UK Government, and feel that it is our joint responsibility to keep our participants, volunteers, and partners as safe as possible #social distancing.

“We can promise you that we are working hard behind the scenes to make the event a smashing success on our new date, to celebrate you, the participants, who always show so much love and support, and raise vital funds for your chosen charities.”

Alissa Koopal, chief executive at Pennine Events, added: “With so many people and families in isolation, why not bring people from all corners together through some interactive fitness as well as smiles. We challenge you to come up with #27ways to prepare for your LCL challenge while in isolation.

“This may be anything from going on a bike ride in the park. It may be decorating helmets and bikes with the kids or to jointly craft a big banner to be displayed at the finish line.”